The temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, it’s time to shift our focus to a vegan summer lifestyle. Whether you’re an experienced vegan or just starting out, there are plenty of ways to embrace a plant-based diet and lifestyle during the summer months. Here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Embrace seasonal fruits and vegetables

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. Take advantage of the abundance of produce available during this time of year and incorporate them into your meals. Some of the best summer fruits and vegetables include watermelon, berries, peaches, corn, tomatoes, and zucchini.

2. Keep it light and refreshing

Summer is all about light, refreshing meals that won’t weigh you down. Consider incorporating salads, smoothie bowls, and chilled soups into your diet. These types of meals are perfect for hot summer days and will help keep you feeling energized and satisfied.

3. Experiment with vegan grilling

Just because you’re vegan doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a summer barbecue. Experiment with grilling vegetables like corn, mushrooms, and peppers, or try grilling tofu or plant-based burgers. You’ll be surprised at how delicious and satisfying these options can be.

4. Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important during the summer months, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. Make sure to drink plenty of water, and consider incorporating hydrating foods like watermelon and cucumber into your diet.

5. Get creative with your snacks

Summer is the perfect time to get creative with your snacks. Instead of reaching for processed foods, consider making your own snacks using fresh fruits and vegetables. Some easy snack ideas include sliced cucumbers with hummus, fresh fruit salad, or homemade granola bars.

6. Plan ahead

Planning ahead is key to maintaining a vegan lifestyle during the summer months. Make sure to stock up on fresh produce, and plan your meals in advance to avoid resorting to unhealthy options when you’re on-the-go.

By embracing a vegan summer lifestyle, you can enjoy all the benefits of a plant-based diet while still indulging in delicious, seasonal foods. Use these tips to help you get started on your journey to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

2 Summer Vegan Juices:

1. Watermelon & Mint Juice

Ingredients:

– 2 cups diced watermelon

– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

– 1/2 lime, juiced

– 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth.
2. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

2. Pineapple & Ginger Juice

Ingredients:

– 2 cups diced pineapple

– 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled

– 1/2 lemon, juiced

– 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth.
2. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

2 Vegan Smoothie Bowls:

1. Berry & Banana Smoothie Bowl

Ingredients:

– 1 banana, frozen

– 1/2 cup mixed berries, frozen

– 1/2 cup almond milk

– 1 tbsp chia seeds

– Toppings of your choice (e.g. sliced banana, fresh berries, granola)

Instructions:

1. Blend the banana, mixed berries, almond milk and chia seeds until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
3. Add toppings of your choice.
4. Enjoy your delicious and healthy smoothie bowl!

2. Mango & Coconut Smoothie Bowl

Ingredients:

– 1 mango, peeled and chopped

– 1/2 cup coconut milk

– 1/2 cup pineapple, frozen

– 1 tbsp shredded coconut

– Toppings of your choice (e.g. sliced mango, fresh berries, granola)

Instructions:

1. Blend the mango, coconut milk, pineapple and shredded coconut until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
3. Add toppings of your choice.
4. Enjoy your delicious and healthy smoothie bowl!

Juliette Christodoulou

The Chef I Enso Vegan Lifestyle Bar