Summer Veggies - Get 'Em While You Can

Photo: Saskei, Flickr

As summer winds down, so does one of my favorite things about the sunny season -- freshly-grown veggies. Sweet, juicy and succulent, you'd be hard pressed to find produce as tasty as this in December, particularly in the part of the world where I live. So let's appreciate them while we can, OK?

The Washington Post recently did just that by celebrating a summertime favorite, fresh corn on the cob. Corn has a bit of a bad reputation, but as it happens, it has some essential nutrients like vitamin B5, vitamin C and folate. An ear of corn is about 100 calories (though obviously that number goes up when you pile on the butter) and -- having both soluble and insoluble fiber-- it acts as a sort of "snow plow" on your digestive system by helping to clean out some of the bad stuff in there. And here's another corn tip: Cooking it increases the antioxidant value, so make sure you eat yours hot.

Of course, corn isn't the only summer veggie that should be making an appearance on your plate this season.

Here are a few more we love:

• Sugar snap peas are an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of vitamin A. Plus, they're freaking delicious.
• Summer Squash is high in vitamins C and B6, and is easy to cook -- just drizzle with olive oil and throw it in the oven for 20 minutes.
• Beets are a great source of both folate and fiber. Small or medium ones have the most flavor.
• Green beans have vitamins C and A, plus plenty of fiber. And when they're fresh, they make a fantastic side to any meal.
• Cucumber is a delicious way to stay hydrated on a hot day. What's your favorite summertime veggie?

Trying to find ways to use your summer produce? Check out our Recipe Round-Up for some scrumptious-sounding summer salads.