Seasonal Greens
Every fruit and vegetable should be consumed in their season. Genetically modified products are in the markets and I advise you to not to buy them. Since organic fruits and vegetables are organic if they were harvested in their season. therefore, seasonal greens, fruits, and vegetables should be part of the green smoothie.
In summer, you’ll find a lot of different lettuce varieties thrive. You’ll find the tight head of Iceberg, the loose leaf varieties include Butter Lettuce and Red Oak Leaf. Romaine lettuce has an elongated head. Also, I prefer black cabbage and red beet since I love them personally. I strongly recommend trying these in smoothies. Happily, you’ll still find the winter greens above.
In winter, the range of greens available is naturally much smaller. Winter greens are high in vitamin A. Enjoy including Chard, Collard Greens, Kale, Mustard Greens and even Spinach. You’ll find Arugula (Rocket) and even Turnip Greens can be used. Use Beet Greens, Carrot tops, and Winter Purslane. You’ll find Endive and other Chicory varieties (also a little strong or bitter), Cabbage and if it’s not too cold, Mizuna lettuce is the choice.
Finding the proper seasonal green for yourself
I know you’ll always find some greens in your market or grocer. You’ll also find greens at your local market. Of course, buying freshly picked produce is always better. In my opinion, I would always prefer organic produce. Sometimes, however, it is availability and financial considerations that determine what you do buy.
Make sure you find a variety of greens. Taste them all. Farmers’ markets are great for asking stallholders if you can taste a leaf or two of varieties you are unfamiliar with. Get familiar with what kinds of greens are mild, medium and strong. When you find a smoothie recipe I will often specify a particular green to use.
However, if you, for example, cannot find Bok Choy then substitute a different mild green. The taste will be substantially similar and perhaps identical.
By the same token, if that smoothie with Bok Choy in the ingredients list is your all-time favorite concoction. You drink it several times per week then substituting other mild greens will ensure that you have a good complement of nutrients in your diet.
