Spring is here —

and fresh produce is one delicious benefit

of this season of rebirth.

We desire warming stews and soups to help keep us warm in the cold winter months, but our bodies have different needs in the warmer months of spring and summer. We want to be outdoors enjoying the warm weather activities and have less time for cooking, especially for preparing meals that take a long time to complete. Spring and summer are also times in the year when the last thing we want to do is eat warming foods.

Spring is a time to cleanse from the heavier foods and more sedentary lifestyle of winter. It is when our body naturally wants to begin eating lighter and refreshing foods. Summer is a time to eat light, vibrant foods that are either cooked quickly or eaten raw, such as salads. Many of the tender young greens come into season in the spring, along with vegetables that are more flavorful when cooked very quickly.

During this beautiful season enjoy healthy recipes that highlight fresh fruits and vegetables in season, such as asparagus, sweet peas, strawberries, artichokes, leeks and rhubarb. For produce at its peak, shop the farmers’ market or grow fruits and vegetables in your garden.

So, whether you are eating for the season, or looking for a 'Meatless Monday Meal'... you may want to try this recipe for a Portobello Mushroom Burger.

Portobello Mushroom Burgers

Ingredients:

2 Portobello Mushrooms, remove stems

1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar

1 clove minced Garlic

2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

2 slices Provolone, Swiss or Your Favorite Cheese

2 pieces Focaccia Bread or Bun

2 Roasted Red Peppers, drained

Tomatoes, Onions, or Your Favorite Toppings

Method: Marinate mushrooms in vinegar mixture for approximately 20-30 minutes. Drain any excess.

Whisk together vinegar, garlic and oil, and set aside.

Grill or Broil Mushrooms 6 to 7 minutes per side. A light brown is the color you are going for.

Toast the bread or bun. Add grilled or broiled mushrooms to your toasted bun and then melt cheese on top.

Build your sandwich with your favorite toppings. Be Creative!

Don't want the bread? Make a salad! Slice the grilled mushrooms over salad and use the balsamic vinegar mixture as your dressing for the salad.