Seven Nutritious Plant-Based Summer Food Ideas
Summer calls for refreshing and wholesome meals celebrating the season’s bountiful produce. It’s an easy time to embrace a plant-based diet and support the environment you’re out enjoying. Here are some of my favorite nutrient-rich summer food ideas to satisfy your tastebuds.
Grilled veggie skewers
Thread any combination of vegetables together–like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms and onion–on skewers. Then, marinate them with olive oil, garlic, lemon and fresh herbs before firing them up on the grill. For a protein boost, dip them in a simple tahini sauce or add some seasoned tofu.
Fresh fruit salads
Say so long to plain old fruit bowls. Mix it up with various vibrant fruits, such as watermelon, pineapple, berries, mango and kiwi. Sprinkle it with mint leaves, a drizzle of tangy lime juice and even a few coconut flakes. This colorful medley will please your palate, provide a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants, and help keep you hydrated.
Avocado toast experiments
Avocado toast is a versatile canvas with endless options to build on. Start with a thick slice of toast and spread ripe avocado on top. Then, enhance with it thinly sliced radishes, microgreens from the garden and a sprinkle of sesame seasoning. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, try topping it with sliced pears or peaches, a drizzle of agave and a pinch of chili flakes. It’s a tantalizing blend that’ll kickstart your morning.
Cool cucumber gazpacho
When it’s too hot to turn on the oven, beat the heat with a refreshing chilled soup. Whip up this gazpacho by blending cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic and fresh herbs. Season with olive oil, vinegar and a hint of lime juice and serve as a light lunch or appetizer with sandwiches to follow.
Zesty quinoa salad
If you’re craving something heartier, combine cooked quinoa with diced veggies such as cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion and cherry tomatoes. Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro and mint, and dress the dish with a lemon vinaigrette that goes with everything.
Banana nice cream
Homemade vegan ice cream is such a simple treat to make. Blend frozen bananas with a splash of plant-based milk until creamy and smooth. That’s it! Of course, you can customize it by mixing in dark chocolate chunks, crushed nuts or your favorite fruit puree.
BYO burger
There are so many plant-based burger options at the store these days, but there’s something exciting about building your own. It’s also a fun activity to do with friends on leisurely summer afternoons. Blend black beans, lentils, mushrooms and spices and form them into patties before carefully pan-frying them. Serve on a whole-grain bun like any other burger, topping with lettuce, tomato, onion and vegan condiments.
For plant-based recipes you can enjoy year-round, click here. Stay tuned for more meal ideas made by me soon!