It might have been an unsettled one, but as the kids return to school, and life gets back to its normal routine, the summer draws to a close. Luckily, there's still wonderful produce everywhere, so summer eating goes on!

I love the variety of produce the summer brings, especially as we reach the harvest season. My raspberries and blueberries have given way to ripening figs, just crying out for whatever twist I decide to give them: savoury (parma ham and feta) or sweet (roasting with a little honey, topped with flaked almonds and creme fraiche)

My broad beans and peas, though, are my favourite (and my son's) Health-wise, it doesn’t get any better - very high in protein and energy, they are a rich source of dietary fibre, and bursting with phytonutrients like isoflavones and plant sterols, which have been found to protect against breast cancer and reduce blood cholesterol levels. As one of the highest plant sources of potassium, these pale green beauties support your heart and blood pressure too.

 As if that weren’t enough, they’re also an excellent source of folates, essential components of DNA synthesis and cell division, vital for energy metabolism and nervous system function, aiding in the synthesis of DNA, RNA and red blood cells. People who eat folate-rich foods regularly have been found to have a decreased risk of heart disease, cancer and depression.

Whether you grow your own, or have broad beans you can pod in your local market, here's a really quick, simple, and utterly delicious recipe to make the most of the seasonal freshness.

Minty Broad Beans with Lemon 

450g broad beans

2 tbsp garlic-infused oil

grated rind and juice of 1 lemon

fresh mint, chopped

seasoning

Skin the broad beans so you're left with the very green inside part (unless they are very fresh, and very small) Blanch in lightly salted water for around 4 minutes until just tender - be careful not to overcook. Drain and toss with the oil, lemon juice, rind and mint. Season to taste and serve.

Remember there's a blog full of free recipes on my website. Enjoy cooking, but more importantly, enjoy eating!

Have a happy, healthy weekend!

Jane

The Functional Foodie