One of the many joys of Michigan summers is the variety of fresh produce that’s in season. Fresh vegetables and fruit are available throughout the state, making it the perfect time to explore farmers markets or take a trip to pick your own produce.
Many local farms offer customers a “U-Pick” option, allowing them to spend time in orchards, gardens and fields finding the best produce for their cooking needs. This can be help you meal plan for the week.
Not to mention, spending quality time outside with loved ones, whether it be in the backyard or at an orchard, is good for your health. Picking produce is the perfect way to spend a summer afternoon away from home while still taking proper social distancing precautions.
To get the best crop, it’s important to make sure you are picking produce that’s in season. Strawberries and rhubarb are at their best in June, while cherries and blackberries hit their stride in July. Many resources are available to help you learn about when various produce is at its best in Michigan and find a U-Pick farm near you.
August marks the peak of blueberry season and the beginning of apple season in Michigan. Whether you take a weekend trip to pick produce, visit a nearby farmers market, or opt to have your produce delivered right to your door, here are some delicious, healthy blueberry and apple recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth:
- Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: Lemon and blueberry are a match made in fruit heaven. If you’re craving cheesecake but don’t want all the calories, this recipe is for you. Substituting Greek yogurt in the filling allows you to enjoy all the best parts of cheesecake, with less sugar and calories.
- Blueberry Crisp: When you’ve got a craving for blueberry pie, consider trying this delicious blueberry crisp. The recipe has all the blueberry and cinnamon flavors found in a slice of pie, while opting for a healthier oat crust and maple syrup to cut down on sugar.
- Apple Cake: Move over, apple pie – apple cake is here to steal the show. This recipe combines a variety of spices and apples to create a delicious sponge cake, topped with a light cream cheese and Greek yogurt frosting that doesn’t pack on the calories. This cake is perfect for an after dinner treat or even a sweet breakfast.
- Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies: Add a healthy and delicious twist to the traditional oatmeal cookie with this recipe. Agave or honey can be substituted to cut down on sugar and create the perfect cookie that is equal parts soft and chewy.
- Apple Blueberry Bread: If you can’t decide between a yummy apple recipe or sweet blueberry dessert, use both. This apple blueberry bread is packed with protein and can be made as a loaf or as muffins. This sweet bread is the perfect way to start your morning off right, or a great snack to curb hunger later in the day.
