Summer Produce Can't Be Beet

It’s no secret that some of the most delicious fruits and vegetables are currently being harvested across the country. In Massachusetts, beets are in season from June through September. Though often underappreciated, they are a nutritious and colorful addition to this summer’s bounty.
 
Research suggests this antioxidant and nutrient-rich vegetable has compounds that may reduce inflammation associated with chronic disease. (Beets may play a role in decreasing the risk of cancer and heart disease.) They also contain protective pigments called betalains that give them their deep red and yellow color. 
 
The Leaves are Edible Too
 
Beetroot leaves contain a variety of nutrients and can easily be chopped up and added to a fresh summer salad or sautéed, like spinach.

New to beets? Try this lemon beet hummus. 
 
To find locally grown beets (and other produce) this summer, here are a few Boston-area markets:

• Brookline Farmers' Market 

Centre Street West parking lot
Thursdays from 1:30 PM - 6:30 PM
June 2 - November 17, 2022 

• Copley Square Farmers’ Market 

139 Street James Avenue
Tuesdays and Fridays from 11AM - 6 PM
May 13 - November 22, 2022 
​

• Davis Square Farmers' Market 

Day Street & Herbert Street
Wednesday 12 - 6 PM
May 18 - November 23, 2022

Check here for other farmers' markets throughout Massachusetts. 

REFERENCES:
Brookline Farmers Market. Brookline Farmers Market. Accessed June 2022.  
Ceclu, L and  N Oana-Viorela. Red Beetroot: Composition and Health Effects - A Review. Journal of Nutritional Medicine and Diet Care. 2020;5(2).
Clifford T, Howatson G, West D, and E Stevenson. The Potential Benefits of Red Beetroot Supplementation in Health and Disease. Nutrients. 2015;7(4): 2801-2822.
Laucharoen, S. A Guide to Farmers’ Markets Around Boston. Boston.com. Accessed June 2022.  
Massachusetts Grown Produce Availability Chart. Massachusetts Department of Agriculture Resources. Accessed June 2022. 

By Sabrina Grovom, MGH Dietetic Intern