From artichokes to strawberries, youll start springtime on a delicious, nutritious note.
Its not super restrictive, its filling and the meals are full of flavor!
One of the best ways to get started is by centering your plate around seasonal produce.
Photo:Getty Images. EatingWell design.
And springtimewhen all kinds of tasty fruits and veggies come into seasonis a fantastic time to begin.
Of course, there are loads of options out there.
Here are their go-tos.
Artichokes
Artichokes were dietitians most popular recommendation for this article!
What makes them so great?
Plus, there aresomany delicious ways to prepare them.
Never cooked them before?
Theseeasy artichoke recipescan get you started.
Arugula
Green leafy veggies are one of the staples of the Mediterranean diet.
This spring, we suggest stocking up on arugula to get your green leafy veggie fix.
Add this peppery green to wraps, sandwiches and salads.
It pairs beautifully with many Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Gaw suggests enjoying asparagus roasted, grilled, stir-fried or raw in a salad.
But dont stop there.
Thesehealthy asparagus recipeswill give you endless inspiration.
So, why not add some fatty fish to your meals this spring?
Fava Beans
Looking for another way to add protein to your Mediterranean diet?
Never cooked with them before?
Theyre delicious in this Sudanese stew calledFul Medamesor as the foundation for crunchy fava bean fritters known asTaameya.
You cant beat them for convenience and affordability.
Because theyre frozen at the peak of freshness, theyre just as nutritious as fresh!
Herbs
Herbs like rosemary, basil, dill, mint and thyme are central to the Mediterranean diet.
Try sprinkling fresh herbs over a salad or tossing them with roasted vegetables for extra flavor, recommends Ellis.
ThisGuide to Cooking with Fresh Herbswill show you everything you should probably know.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms, another seasonal favorite, are prized for their umami flavor and nutrient profile, says Manaker.
Their ability to absorb the flavors of herbs and spices enhances their appeal in spring cooking.
However, mushrooms appeal is not just about their flavor.
Many mushroom varieties are also a source of beta-glucans.
This recipe incorporates several foods on our list!
Strawberries
When it comes to springtime fruits, you cant beat strawberries.
For a high-fiber breakfast, we love them in thisStrawberry Chia Pudding.
Or, pair them with fresh herbs and tangy feta in aStrawberry Basil Quinoa Salad.
The Bottom Line
The Mediterranean diet has a lot to offer when it comes to healthandflavor.
One way to make it more fun and tasty is to center it around seasonal foods.
Theyre full of vitamins, antioxidants and fiber to support overall health.
Plus, stocking up when theyre in season means theyll be freshest and most flavorful!
While youre at it, dont forget to add some fatty fish for protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fats.
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