We’re ten days into June, so what are we putting into our shopping baskets this month? As regular readers will know, we’re fierce advocates of natural living, whether it be the things we put onto our skin or into our mouths, so each month we like to highlight three little super foods that are in season right now. What better way to eat, than naturally and in season? Organic living effects every part of our lives and we want to share that with you. So here we are- three little super foods to eat in June. Enjoy!
Peas
Those little green things your mum used to put on your plate and insist you eat? Yep, those little things are in season right now and they’re ridiculously good for you. That phrase ‘Mother knows best’ really is true you know! So what’s so great about peas? And why is June the best month to eat them?
Peas are tiny little balls of super greatness. Don’t believe us? It’s really true! Not only are they low fat (so great if you’re looking to lose or maintain your weight), but they’re also packed with super powers that include:
- Anti ageing
- Immune system strengthening
- Prevention of wrinkles
- Prevention of Alzheimers
- Prevention of bronchitis
- Anti inflammatory properties
- Blood sugar regulation
- Heart disease prevention
- Promotion of healthy digestive system
- Maintenance of healthy bones
- Reduction of cholesterol levels
Phew! So how do they do this? Peas are packed full of vitamins, minerals and omega-3 fat that means they are able to perform all of the above each and every time you eat them. And in addition to all of that, they’re also great for the environment too. Peas actually work with bacteria in the soil to ‘fix’ nitrogen from the air and deposit it back into the soil. This means that the need for artificial fertilizers is eliminated! The remaining plant then easily down to create more organic fertilizer for the soil and because they grow on minimal moisture, they’re a perfect crop in many areas, seeing as they don’t need irrigation. So they’re good for us, and they’re good for the planet too. A true super food!
How to eat them
Not keen on peas at the side of your plate? Who says they have to be a side dish? We love this simple Minty Pea Soup. All you need is:
- 850 ml vegetable stock (make your own!)
- 1 large onion
- 1 large potato
- 450g peas
- 1 handful fresh mint leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons greek yogurt
Pop the stock into a pan with the onion and potato (diced) and simmer for a few minutes. Then add the peas and mint, bring to the boil then simmer for around ten minutes. Let it cool a little, add the yogurt and seasoning then serve. You can blend if you like a smooth soup, or eat as it is. Delicious!
Broad Beans
Another little green vegetable that your mum probably made you eat when you were little, but by now we know that she had the right idea don’t we?! Broad beans are really high in fibre (so great for the digestive system) and also high in protein, so they make a great filling snack or addition to any meal. If you’re trying to lose weight, these little gems are your friend. They’re also high in folate and B vitamins, which we need for nerve and blood cell development, cognitive function and energy.
How to eat them
Broad beans are best kept simple. Boil them, then sautee gently in a pain with some olive oil, garlic and mint. Enjoy.
Strawberries
There’s a reason why they serve these little ruby gems at Wimbledon! They’re at their best in June, so stock up now and enjoy! Strawberries are an excellent source of antioxidant-promoting vitamin C and manganese, plus they’re high in dietary fiber, iodine, and folate. Did you also know that strawberries are high in copper, potassium, biotin, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin B6, and omega-3 fatty acids too?
So what can strawberries do for us? Super powers include:
- Immunity boosting
- Protecting eye health
- Cancer fighting
- Wrinkle reducing
- Cholesterol lowering
- Inflammation reduction
- Blood pressure regulation
- Healthy digestion
- Weight loss management
Just don’t be tempted to pour cream or sugar all over them! Enjoy them as they are- fresh, sweet and delicious.
What are you eating this month?