From breakfast to dessert, discover easy ways to add colourful and juicy berries to every bite this summer.
Summer season brings a bounty of colourful, juicy, and nutrient-loaded berries that are equally versatile and delicious. From strawberries cultivated in the hills of Mahabaleshwar to blueberries and raspberries found in gourmet markets, berries are gradually becoming a part of the Indian kitchen. But how to make the most of these little powerhouses of health? In this article, we will explore how to use summer berries in every meal.
Begin your day with a burst of antioxidants rich breakfast. Mix strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries into your morning bowl of oats, muesli or dahi. You can also prepare a quick berry smoothie with chilled milk or almond milk, a banana. Are in hurry? A handful of berries is also perfect for rushed mornings.
Pro Tip: Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for an extra nutrition punch. Want to explore a fancier breakfast? Try berry-stuffed parathas.
Ditch those fried snacks or sugary drinks and munch on chilled berry yogurt parfaits. Layer fresh berries with Greek yogurt. For a more Indian twist, try berries in chaats! In mixed fruit chaat, replace conventional fruits with strawberries and blueberries for a tangy twist. Serve the same to kids too.
Those who don't know, berries can easily be part of lunch too! Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (they are technically berries too!) to kale or spinach salads. You will surely enjoy the sweet-sour flavour. Grilled paneer with a berry vinaigrette also makes for a refreshing summer meal. If you are consuming millets in lunch, add berries to get the tartness.
Pro Tip: Mix finely chopped berries with mint and use them as a topping for raita or cold pasta salad.
Say goodbye to those unhealthy sugary sodas and welcome homemade berry coolers. Blend strawberries with lemon juice and mint for a natural energy boost drink. Otherwise, you can steep blueberries and blackberries in chilled green tea for detoxification in summer. To make a fancier evening snack, prepare berry popsicles with yogurt, honey, and mashed berries. Enjoy pure fruity goodness without artificial colours.
Pro Tip: Instead of supermarket-bought biscuits, prepare or buy whole-grain toast with berry jam (homemade).
It's smart to keep dinner light in summer. Whatever you are eating, keep a berry-based salad or a grilled veggie bowl drizzled with a berry-balsamic glaze. Add Indian spices to make it filling and flavourful.
Feeling lazy to prepare well decorated salad? Just prepare berry and cucumber salad with lemon dressing, it's hydrating, healthy, and soothing on a hot summer night.
Ditch these sugary mithai and opt for berry shrikhand, phirni, or even kulfi prepared from berry.
Berries are not only tasty but also boost immunity, improve digestion, and prevent summer fatigue. They're loaded with everything you need to beat the heat naturally–vitamin C, fiber, and powerful antioxidants.
So, the next time you spot fresh berries in local supermarket, grab a box! From your breakfast to bedtime dessert, there’s a way to enjoy berries in every meal.
