Grab Your Greens for the March Harvest of the Month! This month is all about those green leafy vegetables. Beet greens, spinach, and Swiss chard are greens that belong to the same family of plants. Contrary to the name, Swiss chard did not come from Switzerland. Swiss chard originates from a wild version of the beet that naturally grew in the Mediterranean and it was named by a Swiss botanist. And for a fun fact about spinach, it was the first frozen vegetable sold in North America!
Greens have so many benefits to our health! They are packed full of nutrients like Calcium which helps build strong bones and teeth, Vitamin A which keeps our skin and bones healthy, resists and fights infection and maintains good eyesight. They also have Vitamin C which helps wounds heal, is important for the immune system, and is an antioxidant, which protects cells from damage. Greens also have Potassium which helps maintain normal blood pressure and Vitamin K which is needed for our blood. So many nutrients!
Try adding fresh spinach to your smoothies for a pop of color! Use fresh or frozen spinach in lasagna, casseroles, or soups. Try sauteing Swiss chard with garlic and add to eggs or top a pizza. Fresh greens grown in Wisconsin are available from May through October. Grab Your Greens and Enjoy the March Harvest of the Month!
|