We Hoosiers have been blessed this summer. Lots of rain, and abundant crops. Which means farmers markets have a lavish array of fresh produce. Vine ripened, red and yellow tomatoes. Sweet, juicy cantaloupe and watermelon. Fresh picked corn. Peppers. Some are even selling colorful bouquets of coxcomb flowers to decorate your living room and take your mind off food. Now is the best time of year to try and lose weight. Farmer’s markets help weight control by providing us with the best “diet” food on earth.
There are a few unfortunate people who don’t like tomatoes. I’m not one of them. I keep a basketful in my kitchen. When you get the hungries, slice a tomato, add a little salt, and any cravings for high calorie snacks disappear. Here’s the good news: One small tomato has only 15 calories. Tomatoes are a source of the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. They also provide vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K.
Sweet corn is a great substitute for potatoes. A baked potato has 161 calories vs. 59 calories for an ear of corn. Butter will add extra calories to both. Caution: Do not overcook corn. If you do, it will taste tough and starchy. Boil for no more than 15 minutes.
Some folks are allergic to watermelon, but most aren’t. One problem is that they’re so big, it’s a challenge to consume the whole melon while still fresh. But as I mentioned in my blog last month, it can be frozen in chunks to use in smoothies. There are only 49 calories in a cup of watermelon, but it has a high water content, which makes you feel full. And it has beneficial nutrients like Vitamins A and C.
Zucchini squash isn’t one of my favorite veggies, but it’s colorful and crisp.. When serving dip to guests, substitute zucchini slices for potato chips. Did you know that 10 potato chips have 100 calories, while 10 zucchini slices have almost none?
Thank heaven for local farmers help with weight control. Fill your tummy with fresh fruits and veggies, and you’re bound to lose a few pounds.