Celebrate Earth Day with Seasonal Eating and a Healthy Picnic Adventure
As Earth Day approaches there’s no better way to honor our planet than by embracing healthy eating and outdoor exercise!
One impactful way to celebrate Earth Day is by adopting a seasonal approach to eating. By incorporating fresh, locally sourced produce into our diets, we not only support sustainable farming practices but also nourish our bodies with nutrient-rich foods. Pairing this with a hike and a healthy picnic makes for a perfect Earth Day celebration!
Why Eat Seasonally?
Eating seasonally involves consuming fruits and vegetables that are naturally ripe and ready for harvest during specific times of the year. Seasonal produce tends to be fresher, tastier, and more nutrient-dense compared to its off-season counterparts (unless if you buy canned or frozen produce, which is normally harvested and processed in-season).
Buying in-season produce often means supporting local farmers and reducing the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation.
How Seasonal Eating Saves Money
One of the most significant advantages of eating seasonally is its potential for cost savings. When fruits and vegetables are in abundance, their prices typically drop due to increased supply. This means you can enjoy a variety of fresh produce without breaking the bank.
When buying locally grown, in-season produce from farmers markets or grocery stores, this often eliminates the markups associated with imported or out-of-season items. By incorporating seasonal ingredients into your meals, you not only promote financial wellness but also contribute to a more sustainable food system.
Planning a Healthy Picnic
To truly embrace Earth Day, why not take your seasonal feast outdoors? Packing a healthy picnic allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature while savoring nutritious foods. Here’s how to plan a memorable and healthy picnic adventure:
- Choose Your Location: Opt for a scenic hiking trail, park, or outdoor location that requires some sort of easy to moderate physical activity to get to.
- Pack Smart: Fill your picnic basket with an assortment of seasonal fruits and vegetables. If you’re wondering what is in season, check out this seasonal produce guide (https://snaped.fns.usda.gov/resources/nutrition-education-materials/seasonal-produce-guide).
- Hydrate Naturally: Instead of sugary sodas or bottled juices, quench your thirst with refreshing water or an electrolyte infused drink (electrolytes become more important the longer you exercise, but typically plain water is fine if it’s an easy hike).
- Go Homemade: Prepare simple, homemade dishes like salads, wraps, or sandwiches using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Opt for recipes that are easy to assemble and pack, ensuring a hassle-free picnic experience.
- Mindful Enjoyment: Take your time to savor each bite, relishing the flavors and textures of your picnic spread. Make sure to soak up the natural surroundings!
Easy In-Season Picnic Snack
This Earth Day, let’s celebrate the planet we call home by embracing seasonal eating and outdoor adventures. By opting for locally sourced, in-season produce and enjoying a healthy picnic amidst nature, we not only celebrate Earth Day but also nourish ourselves in the process.
So, grab your picnic basket and/or hiking pack, lace up your sneakers, and embark on your journey!
Recipe: Strawberry Pretzel Parfait
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
- 1/2 cup low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 T honey
Directions:
- Assemble the parfait by layering ingredients in a bowl or cup. Top with a drizzle of honey!
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