HEALTH

We all know that fruits are important parts of healthy diets—filled with natural antioxidants, tons of vitamins and potassium, they help your body to work at its very best. Sometimes, however, it's hard to find new ways to enjoy fruit, especially if you're busy and pressed for time. If you're tired of seeing the same sliced strawberries in the same plastic container in your lunchbox every day, or you're sick of plain, old apples, these seven ideas could help you revitalize your interest in these nutritious, fruity treats.

1. Make some fun, summer DIY fruit popsicles.
We're all counting down the days until school is out, and a good way to get into the relaxed, happy summer mood is making popsicles with friends. All you need is a few cups of your fave fruit, a blender and a popsicle mold (you can get them for less than $5 here)! Pour your creation into your popsicle mold, stick it in the freezer and soon you'll have a delicious, frozen pop to keep you cool in the sunny weather. Need some ideas? Here's a handy list of 21 recipes!

2. Substitute fries for a fruit cup at restaurants.
While we all love the crispy, potato-filled goodness of French fries, fruit can also be a tasty option at many restaurants. The next time you're scanning a menu, check to see if it's listed as a side. Fruit cups go well with any sandwich, salad, or entree.

3. Try a yummy caprese sandwich for lunch.
Tomatoes are in season throughout June, July and August, which means they'll be especially juicy and filled with flavor. They're also high in vitamin C, which keeps your bones strong and skin healthy. All you need for a mouth-watering caprese sandwich is two slices of bread, a sliced tomato, mozzarella cheese and some basil leaves. Add some of your favorite pesto or sweet balsamic vinegar for extra taste! Click here for a complete recipe.

4. Craving candy? Eat some delicious frozen grapes, blueberries, or raspberries instead.
You might already know the beauty of frozen berries if you love fruity yogurts and ice creams, but these little miracles taste just as amazing on their own. Easy to buy in the freezer section of the grocery store, or equally simple to DIY,  frozen berries often have hard outer shells with cold, gooey insides, and you can pop them right into your mouth.  

5. Have a cute tea party with friends, and don't forget the cucumber sandwiches.
Sophisticated ladies everywhere know the importance of a good tea party. It's not just a fun opportunity to catch up with friends—it's also a good excuse to eat delicate, tasty food. Try this recipe for the classic cucumber sandwich with only 5 ingredients necessary.

6. Slather some avocado on your bagel for a fruity breakfast.
It's a little-known fact that avocados are actually fruits! With its rich texture and enormous amounts of vitamins and minerals, an avocado can give you tons of nutrients while still tasting great. GL has already listed 10 great ways to include this superfood in your diet. Eating heart-healthy avocados in the morning will boost your energy, because they're *filled* with nutritious oils.

7. Bake some mouth-watering banana bread.   
This delicious recipe will feed 10 people, for you and all of your friends to enjoy! What your grandparents used to tell you about bananas improving your vision is actually true, so you'll be helping your eyes *and* your stomach.

What kind of fruit do you like? Let us know in the comments! 

by Bridget Curley | 3/10/2019