Squash the heat with a berry good treat!

Summer is a great time to get a different variety of fruits and vegetables, especially refreshing ones. So “squash” the heat for a “berry” good treat during this time of year!

Strawberries and summer squash!

This week, the fruit and veggie on-the-move truck gave out strawberries, blueberries, and green and yellow summer squash. All great and tasty summer fruits and vegetables (well technically all fruit because squash is considered a fruit in nature,) these foods can be quite refreshing and delicious during the summer time. I enjoyed hearing the reactions from the kids when they saw the yellow and green squash: “is that a lemon?” “are we allowed to eat that?” Though the yellow squash did look like a lemon from far away, I did chuckle when the kids asked me if they could eat the yellow and green thing. One aspect that I love about my job is that we introduce a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to the kids raw. This is a great idea because when they later try it cooked, steamed, or mixed in with other foods then they will grow to love it better.

Strawberries, blueberries, and green and yellow summer squash

Summer Squash!

According to fullcircle.com “Summer squash is a rich source of Vitamin A and C, magnesium, fiber, folate, riboflavin, phosphorus, potassium and Vitamin B6. In addition, it is high in manganese, a mineral which helps the body process fats, carbohydrates, and glucose.” I love to add squash to meals to turn them from ordinary to extraordinary. For example, adding squash to over-baked mac and cheese gives the dish an extra nutritious kick. In the summer, these vegetables are great on the grill and take little effort to make. Just add a dab of salt with some herbs like basil or oregano and BAM, you have a tasty and healthy side to go with any meal.

Lessons with your child:

Go to your local nursery or store with your child and buy seeds of fruits and vegetables to plant with them. Show your child how plants grow by the putting seeds into a small pot, watering them, and watching them sprout. To do this, make sure you put the plant in a plastic bag so that you will be able to see the roots grow. Your child will be able to see the daily progress of their plant and then they can transfer their projects outdoors. Once the plant is fully developed, your child will be able to eat their healthy creation. This is another fun way to teach your child to eat healthy!