Summer is a season of abundance, with fruits, vegetables, and herbs that are true superfoods for our bodies. In Mediterranean cuisine, the combination of fresh and nutritious ingredients is key to light, balanced meals, perfect for hot days. Many of these ingredients, rich in vitamins and antioxidants, are the stars of our summer recipes.
Let’s start with tomatoes, one of the Mediterranean kitchen’s greatest allies. Packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, tomatoes help protect the skin from sun damage and improve heart health. They are perfect in salads, cold soups like gazpacho, or even in pasta dishes.
Another summer superfood is extra-virgin olive oil, the base of Mediterranean cuisine. Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties and helps keep the skin healthy during summer. There’s nothing like a simple salad of tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and olive oil to taste the freshness of the season.
Fresh herbs like basil, mint, and oregano are also essential in Mediterranean cooking. Not only do they add flavor to dishes, but these herbs also have digestive properties and help relieve the heat, making them perfect for refreshing summer meals.
Fresh seasonal fruits like watermelon, corn on the cob, pumpkin, and peaches are excellent sources of hydration and energy. These fruits are rich in vitamin C and minerals, helping to keep the body nourished and hydrated during the heat.
By including these superfoods in your meals, not only will you increase the nutritional value of your diet, but you’ll also feel the freshness and lightness that summer demands. The key is to enjoy the best that nature has to offer!
