With the arrival of spring in Europe, Chef Cândida Batista delves into the seasonal delights of the Vienna Municipal Market, an iconic location that enchants the most discerning palates. Embarking on a culinary journey filled with colors and aromas, the chef finds inspiration among stalls brimming with fresh, select produce.

“The Vienna Municipal Market is one of my favorite places to explore during spring. It’s where I can find an incredible variety of fresh, high-quality ingredients, straight from the harvest,” shares Chef Cândida.

In her shopping basket, along with seasonal fruits like succulent strawberries and vibrant oranges, the chef selected artisanal cheeses and a Sicilian lemon cake to complement her culinary creations.

One of the most exciting surprises was the recreation of a childhood-flavored beverage: the Paraense Aluá1. “It’s a drink that brings back my fondest childhood memories. With its balanced sweetness and unique refreshment, it’s perfect for celebrating the arrival of spring,” explains the chef.

Chef Cândida harvested delicate pine sprouts to prepare this unique beverage, combining them with fresh pineapple slices and sugar in a sterilized bottle. After a week of fermentation, the Paraense Aluá is ready to be enjoyed, a true celebration of flavors and traditions.

With her passion for seasonal cuisine and commitment to fresh, authentic ingredients, Chef Cândida Batista continues her mission to spread the message to food lovers, elevating the gastronomic experience to new levels of excellence.

From delicious seasonal fruits and vegetables to creative recipes that stand out for their unique flavors, let’s explore the culinary wonders of spring together.

ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF SEASONAL FOODS IN SPRING

The arrival of spring brings longer days, milder temperatures, and more light, witnessing a resurgence of plants that cover the surface with colors, aromas, and flavors. Thus, spring promotes an incredible variety of seasonal, nutritious, and colorful foods, providing the ideal opportunity to diversify dietary choices and contribute to a healthier, more nutritious diet.

Seasonal Foods and the Importance of Consuming Them

Seasonal food refers to products available at certain times of the year due to the region’s specific natural and climatic conditions. These foods follow the seasonal cycle of growth, harvesting, and maturation, influenced by temperature, sunlight, and precipitation.

Seasonal food products are fresh and, economically and environmentally, cost less than foods consumed out of season. Moreover, they may present better organoleptic and nutritional characteristics.

Spring Vegetables and Their Benefits

– Asparagus: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, asparagus is excellent for the digestive system and can be consumed in various ways.

– Turnip Greens: With low calories and rich in antioxidants, turnip greens are excellent for those seeking a healthy and balanced diet.

– Peas: A source of plant proteins and vitamins, peas are ideal for regulating intestinal transit and controlling blood glucose levels.

– Fava Beans: With essential nutrients like iron and calcium, fava beans contribute to cholesterol reduction and promote satiety.

Spring Fruits and Their Benefits

– Strawberry: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, strawberries strengthen the immune system and are an excellent source of fiber.

– Loquat: With low calories and high fiber content, loquat helps regulate cholesterol and contributes to cardiovascular health.

– Raspberry: Strengthens the immune system and helps regulate intestinal transit, besides being rich in vitamins and minerals.

– Blueberry: Rich in antioxidants, blueberries protect cells and contribute to a healthy and balanced diet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the arrival of spring provides a unique opportunity to opt for fresh, nutritious, and flavorful foods, as it is the ideal time to diversify the diet through seasonal food products. The seasonal foods of spring offer numerous health benefits, as they contain various nutrients that contribute to a healthy diet and adequate nutrition.