How to Incorporate Nutritious Veggies into Your Daily Life

The benefits of eating a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are widely recognized. Vegetables are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, calcium and various vitamins. They are necessary for our immune systems and for maintaining neurological, skin, bone and heart health. As much as we know the value of eating right, there are times when it just feels difficult to incorporate these nutrients into our daily diet. Some barriers might include a lack of time or creativity, picky eaters in the house or simply the taste of these foods. If these or any other reasons are preventing you from eating more fruits and vegetables, try these helpful tips for easily incorporating nutritious veggies into your weekly meals this summer.

GRILLING: Bell Peppers (high in Vitamin C and Vitamin A), Onions (high in calcium, iron and fiber)

It’s grilling season! Using your grill is an excellent way to introduce delicious smoky flavor to your crisp summer veggies. Try making kabobs with bell peppers and onions and your choice of lean meat. Here are a few recipes to get started.

The BEST Chicken Kabobs – Tastes Better from Scratch

Sesame Chicken Kabobs – Damn Delicious

SMOOTHIES: Spinach (Vitamin A and Fiber), Kale (iron, calcium and folic acid), Cauliflower Rice (Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate, B6 and fiber)

Smoothies are a refreshing, cool treat on hot summer days! Incorporating one of these vegetables into your summer smoothies adds nutrients with minimal impact on taste. Who doesn’t love the taste of a cold, berry smoothie on a hot summer’s day? Add in a handful of spinach and you’ve got a full serving of veggies to go with it!

Spinach Berry Smoothie Recipe | Just 4 Healthy Ingredients!

SOUPS: Bell Peppers (Vitamin C and Vitamin A), Garlic (potassium, phosphorus and zinc), Kale (iron, calcium and folic acid), Spinach (Vitamin A and fiber), Broccoli (Vitamin C and iron)

Although we may not be in prime soup season, summer soups can still be a great, low-maintenance meal and also provide delicious leftovers to enjoy throughout the week. Onions, spinach and garlic are among the easiest vegetables to incorporate into almost any soup; however, some recipes also include other vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli. Below are two soup recipes you can enjoy this summer.

Lemon and Spinach Orzo Soup – Supper with Michelle

Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe – How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

OMELETS: Bell Peppers (Vitamin C and Vitamin A), Garlic (potassium, phosphorus and zinc), Onions (calcium, iron and fiber), Spinach (Vitamin A and fiber)

Peppers, onions and spinach are excellent vegetables to sneak into your morning omelet at home or even when you’re at your favorite breakfast spot! Try adding these to your morning routine to start your day off right.

How to Make a Vegetable Omelette (Perfect Every Time!) | Live Eat Learn

Vegetarian Egg Bites – I Heart Vegetables

Incorporating vegetables into everyday eating can be easy and delicious. Try one of these recipes or experiment with your own ideas to enjoy more of these nutrient-packed foods.