Experience the essence of summer with front seat drives, windows down, and snacking on juicy cherries. Let the sweet rivers run down your chin as you make trips to the strawberry fields, possibly with messy toddlers in tow. Summer is synonymous with fresh fruit, and what better way to embrace the season than with a bounty of fruit-forward recipes? Registered dietitian Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, emphasizes the importance of stocking your fruit drawer all season long for not only the quintessential summer taste but also the health benefits it provides. “Fruit offers essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber,” she explains. “The fiber in fruit helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down sugar absorption.”
In addition to the fresh fruits found at farmer’s markets, fruit spreads are a fantastic way to ensure you have a stash of sweetness in your kitchen throughout the summer. “Using fruit-sweetened spreads is a simple way to control the sugar you add to your meals,” Shapiro suggests. “It’s a favorite method of mine to add sweetness while also incorporating essential vitamins, minerals, and potentially fiber from the fruit itself.”
Adding fruit to your summer diet can be done in a variety of creative ways beyond basic watermelon slices. This season, explore new dishes with Bonne Maman’s collection of Fruit Spreads, offering authentic homemade taste with more fruit and less sugar than regular preserves. From breakfast bowls to lattes to flatbreads, there are endless possibilities to enjoy the flavors of summer.
One recipe to try is the Breakfast Bowl with Tahini Apricot Sauce, featuring a blend of greens, vegetables, protein, quinoa, avocado, and the delightful Tahini Apricot Fruit Spread Sauce. This dish is a nourishing and delicious start to your day. Another option is the Goat Cheese Flatbread with Red Fruits Caramelized Jam, a savory and sweet combination that is sure to impress your guests. And for a refreshing beverage, try the Iced Cherry Beet Latte, which combines the unique flavors of cherry and beetroot in a cool, invigorating drink.
To satisfy your sweet tooth, indulge in the Vegan Strawberry Icebox Cake, a dairy-free delight made with graham cracker crumbs, vegan vanilla ice cream, Bonne Maman Strawberry Fruit Spread, dairy-free whipped cream, and sliced strawberries. This decadent dessert is perfect for summer celebrations and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
As you delve into these delightful recipes, remember Shapiro’s advice to savor the flavors of summer with mindfulness and creativity. Embrace the abundance of fresh, seasonal produce, and enjoy the magic of summer gatherings with loved ones. Shop Bonne Maman Fruit Spreads today and elevate your culinary creations with more fruit, less sugar, and a whole lot of summer joy.
