Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September, marks the unofficial end of summer. Whether you’re heading to a friend’s barbecue, a backyard party, or a picnic in the park, here are some seasonal food ideas to enjoy in the lovely late-summer weather.
Late Summer Seasonal Foods
The end of summer represents the harvest of many seasonal foods—even fresh wild-caught salmon is at its best through September.
Wild Caught Salmon
Salmon is an excellent source of protein and essential Omega-3 fatty acids, an essential type of fat the body can’t make on its own.
These nutrients can reduce inflammatory molecules in the body, particularly in the gut and brain, potentially reducing stress levels and anxiety. As a lighter food, salmon is both delicious and nutritious, especially during its peak season.
Zucchini
This summer squash is rich in water content, making it cooling and hydrating for the body. Zucchini is packed with minerals like potassium and magnesium, as well as antioxidants and vitamins B6 and A. As a low-starch vegetable, it promotes healthy digestion. When selecting zucchini, choose medium-sized ones that are firm and blemish-free with vibrant green skin.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a brain-boosting powerhouse thanks to anthocyanin, the phytochemical that gives them their color and health benefits. In season until the end of September in the United States, blueberries are high in soluble fiber and low on the glycemic index, which means they help keep blood sugar levels stable.
Quick and Easy Recipes
Grilling is a popular cooking method for summer, perfect for light, cooling foods like fish and seasonal vegetables. Here are some recipes you can prepare in about 10 minutes each:
BBQ Grilled Zucchini Basil Strips
Ingredients:
- 4 zucchini (medium)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ cup fresh basil (a bunch)
- 1 tsp Himalayan salt
Directions:
- Cut zucchini into thick long strips.
- Mix olive oil, chopped basil, and salt in a bowl. This will help the flavors blend and prevent the zucchini from sticking while grilling.
- Toss zucchini strips in the mixture.
- Cook on a grill or air fryer for 7 to 10 minutes at 380 F until slightly charred and caramelized.
Grilled Zesty Salmon
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. boneless salmon (in four 4 oz. fillets)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
Directions:
- Preheat grill, broiler, or air fryer.
- Cook salmon for 3 to 4 minutes per side on a prepared grill. If your fish normally sticks, lay it skin side down first.
- If broiling, cook for 6 to 8 minutes until done to your liking.
- If using other equipment, cook until crisp and light brown on one side before flipping over.
- Serve with a side of zucchini or a leafy green salad.
If canned salmon is all that’s available, that’s fine too. Salmon patties are an easy and elegant dish to complement any occasion.
Easy Salmon Patties
Ingredients:
- 2 14.75-ounce cans of Alaskan canned salmon (with mashed bones for calcium)
- 2 cups cooked cauliflower
- 1 cup buckwheat flour (or 1/2 cup coconut flour)
- 4 tbsp lemon juice
- A pinch of Himalayan salt
Directions:
- Mix all ingredients in a saucepan or mixing bowl. Shape into patties.
- Fry in a little ghee or olive oil until brown on both sides.
- Add cooked greens of your choice on the side.
- The patties can be frozen for up to one month after completely cooling.
Blueberry Cream Gummies
Ingredients:
- 1 13.5-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup blueberries (fresh or defrosted from frozen)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 10 vanilla stevia drops, or 1 tsp vanilla essence
- 4 tbsp grass-fed gelatin
Directions:
- Heat coconut milk in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Bloom 2 tbsp gelatin in 2 tbsp cold water, then add to coconut milk. Stir until lumps are gone.
- In a blender, blend blueberries, boiling water, vanilla, and remaining gelatin.
- Pour coconut milk layer into a lined dish or ceramic container, then gently pour blueberry layer on top.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set, then slice and serve.
