Savoring Summer Produce

Summer comes and goes way too quickly. It also has its pros and cons. On one hand, the kids are out of school and it’s great to have a break from the daily routine. On the other, it can be challenging to fill the days with engaging activities and make sure they are getting everything they need, including proper nutrition. Below are a few ways you can boost intake of veggies and fruit for the whole family during the warm weather months and beyond. Give these a try to even keep them occupied with a fun activity or two.

• Pickles – Cucumbers are just the beginning! You can preserve other crunchy veggies like cauliflower, radishes, onion, and carrots. Serve on burgers or salads – topped with the Hidden Valley dressing of your choice, of course. Check out how to make a pickle here <https://www.hiddenvalley.com/recipe/397/make-a-pickle>

• Jam – Enjoy summer favorites like berries and bell peppers – simply combine with sugar and pectin, cook down and voila!

• Salsa – Combine finely chopped vegetables, fresh herbs, and even fruit to make a fresh, flavorful salsa for dipping whole grain crackers and chips. Add some Hidden Valley Ranch dressing and transform into a creamy dip.

• Chutney – This sweet and spicy condiment can be made with a wide variety of vegetables and fruits, including onions, peppers, raisins, apples and pears. It’s a great way to incorporate your family’s favorite ingredients. Enjoy with everything from crackers, to burgers, to hearty meats.

• Fruit Leather – Give this kid-friendly treat a try using berries, cherries, kiwi, or mango. We have some easy instructions for you, below:

Mango Fruit Leather Yield: 12 strips 2 cups chopped fresh mango Juice of 1/2 a lime 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons agave nectar Preheat oven to 170°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat mat and set aside. Place mango, lime, sugar, and agave in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook for about 7 to 8 minutes, then puree using an immersion blender.* Continue to cook over medium-high heat for an additional 5 to 10 minutes or until thick and syrupy; the mixture should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Pour the hot fruit mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly into approximately an 8 × 12 inch rectangle. Place in the oven and bake for 3 1/2 hours. Turn off the oven and allow to sit overnight. Cut into strips with a pizza cutter; roll up in a clean piece of parchment paper. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks. *If you do not have an immersion blender, puree in a food processor or blender and then return mixture to saucepan. Nutrition information per 1 strip Calories: 36, Total Fat: 0 grams, Saturated Fat: 0 grams, Carbohydrate: 10 grams, Sugars: 6 grams, Protein: 0 grams, Sodium: 1 milligram, Fiber: 1 gram This post is courtesy of Dana Angelo White, a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer, and nutrition and fitness consultant who specializes in culinary nutrition, recipe development and sports nutrition.