This week we'll explore fresh basil and how to refresh your breakfast routine with a nutrient-packed smoothie. We'll also delve into the beauty of exploring an area by foot and some healthy snacks to make (or buy) to fuel your summer adventures.

Eat Colorfully

Seasonal Ingredient Spotlight: FRESH BASIL

Happy June! As we enter into these next few fabulous summer months, one of the things I'm most excited about is fresh (and eventually homegrown!) herbs. This week I'm happy to be celebrating beautiful, fragrant, versatile basil.

Basil is, of course, the superstar of pesto. But did you know that you can easily make pesto with no oil and no cheese? The comprehensive vegan oil-free pesto guide on my blog is loaded with recipes for non-traditional pesto that is based in avocado, tahini, and even zucchini. If you're excited to make pesto this season but are looking for an option that's plant-based, lighter, and/or oil-free, then you'll definitely want to check this guide out.

Basil is great on salads too; just chop a handful of leaves into very fine ribbons and toss it into all your summer salads. It goes beautifully alongside seasonal produce (corn, tomatoes, peaches, strawberries, etc.) and with Mediterranean flavors. If you're looking for a specific recipe, this Grilled Peach and Farro Salad with Basil is wonderful all season long (try it with whatever fruit is in season).

Try This Week: A SUPERCHARGED SMOOTHIE

Now that we're into summer, what about giving your breakfast routine a refresh? In particular, what about trying a smoothie for breakfast? Smoothies are a great way to pack a ton of nutrition into your morning because you can easily add veggies, protein, electrolytes, and whatever other supplements your body needs. They take just a few minutes to prepare and feel refreshing on a warm morning.

And no, contrary to popular belief, smoothies don't have to contain a lot of fruit (and hence sugar, albeit natural sugar). In fact, you can make a delicious smoothie with virtually no fruit if you're trying to keep carbs in check.

Want to give it a try? My personal go-to is this Supercharged Green Electrolyte + Protein Smoothie. I make it every single morning, just switching up the flavors. It's loaded with a ton of nutrient-dense spinach, an electrolyte-rich banana, protein-rich soy milk, additional protein powder, an electrolyte supplement, and even creatine. You can add other tasty (and powerful!) ingredients like antioxidant-rich matcha, soothing ginger, or omega-rich chia seeds.

Looking for other ways to give your smoothies a makeover? I actually have a whole e-book dedicated to veggie-based smoothies that are low in carbs/sugar and high in protein/fiber. Called "Blend The Rainbow" ($5), it contains eight veggie smoothie recipes themed by color.

Live Colorfully

In the Natural World: TRAVEL HIKING

When you travel, how do you get to know the area you're visiting? What about exploring the area by hiking? Personally speaking, I don't feel like I've been to a place until I explore it on foot. I've been in central California all week for my day-job and have gotten out on numerous really beautiful solo hikes; it made me feel inspired to share this ritual with you.

If you're interested in exploring your destinations on foot, here are a few tips that I've picked up from prioritizing hiking even on work trips:

1. Pack accordingly. If you're traveling for work, bring a pair of sneakers, an outer layer, and a small shoulder bag; that will at least allow you to get out for a little trek. If you're traveling for recreation, prioritize bringing more significant hiking gear like boots and a backpack.
2. Look for local and state parks; a lot of times, they're less crowded than more high-profile destinations and can give you a more intimate (rather than touristy) sense of an area. You're likely to have a few options close-by, no need to waste time driving.
3. Go early. If you want to avoid busy trails, arrive as soon as the park opens. It's more peaceful and introspective, plus it improves your chances of seeing cool critters. If you're traveling for work or a specific event like a wedding, carving out time early in the morning may be your only opportunity.
4. Don't be afraid to go alone. Obviously you want to be safe, but don't feel like you can't hike just because you don't have friends to go with. Hiking alone is beautiful and meditative, as long as you feel like you can do so safely.
5. Make an effort to learn. Try reading about what flowers are in bloom, what bird species are active, and what other animals you might see; it can help you to feel more in-tune with the landscape you're visiting.

Self-Care Pick: HEALTHY SNACKS FOR SUMMER ADVENTURES

As summer approaches and many of us will be traveling, adventuring, playing outside, and otherwise on the move, I wanted to dedicate some time to chatting about healthy snacks.

Generally speaking, I'm a fan of snacks that are high in protein, have some healthy fats, and are small in size. I also love snacks with some texture, e.g. chewy or crunchy, since I find them more satisfying. Homemade snacks are less expensive, waste less packaging, and are generally much healthier since you can be in full control of the ingredients. Some of my favorite go-to portable homemade snacks are homemade Larabars, these whole food monster cookies, and these sweet and spicy roasted nuts. If you'll be out in warm weather, ditch the chocolate so it doesn't melt.

However, it's not always realistic to make your own snacks, especially if you're traveling. That's why I've also put together a healthy snack list that includes my store-bought favorites. You'll see some protein snacks and also some healthier options for salty snacks.

Where will your adventures take you this summer? Whether you'll be traveling the world or just adventuring in your own back yard, don't leave food to chance; bring some healthy snacks so make sure you're well-nourished and happy.

Thanks for joining me for this issue of Eat Colorfully, Live Colorfully! I'd love to hear from you, so please feel free to reply with questions, thoughts, or requests. If you missed a previous issue, you can view all my newsletters here. Have a great week!