Summer Superfoods

Stock your bag at the next farmer’s market trip.

The sun is out—and so are the best fruits and vegetables of summer! When we’re at the farmers market, we keep our eyes peeled for summer superfoods, or fruits and veggies known for their “super” healthy qualities.

If you’re planning a weekend trip to your local farmers market or looking for exciting, delicious ways to get out of a cooking rut, check out our favorite summer superfoods, ready to freshen up your plate. 

What is a superfood?

Superfoods are considered “super” because they are nutrient dense and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, as well as protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Superfoods often naturally contain higher amounts of antioxidant nutrients and plant-based compounds like polyphenols, both of which are important in defending against free radicals. Free radicals are unstable atoms that can contribute to oxidative damage. They are generated by metabolic processes and can also come from environmental factors like UV rays, air pollution, and smoking.

Summer superfoods to add to your shopping list 

So, what are some superfoods that are in season come summertime? Find healthy inspiration in the kitchen at the farmer’s markets or the produce section of your local grocery store with these powerful, nutrient-packed summertime favorites. 

Tomatoes 

This bright Mediterranean fruit, commonly considered and cooked as a vegetable though it is technically a fruit, is a summer staple. Tomatoes are a rich source of nutrients like folate, vitamin C, and potassium, as well as plant-based antioxidants. Try this simple yet delicious Caprese Salad recipe with fresh tomatoes for a midday summer snack.

Sweet corn  

Also known as maize, corn is a decent source of fiber, B-vitamins, and minerals like zinc, magnesium, and iron. Watch out for sweet corn stands nearby and take advantage of corn season with a variety of recipes; it can be cooked in so many ways! This Elote Corn Salad recipe is a yummy option for a refreshing starter or stay the classic route and grill corn on the cob for a fun summer BBQ.

Beets 

Beets get their bright red hue from betalains, a natural plant pigment that has antioxidant properties. They’re also a great source of fiber, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. Beets are versatile and can be eaten raw, pickled, or cooked. This Colorful Beet Salad with Carrot, Quinoa & Spinach is a fresh take on the root vegetable or try simple Roasted Beets as a summer side. 

Kale 

Packed with nutrients, kale is certainly highlighted as a superfood. This leafy dark green vegetable is lower in calories and high in fiber, plant-based antioxidants, and vitamins and minerals. Kale contains vitamins C, K, B6, and E, as well as folate and manganese. Kale can be added to smoothies, used fresh in salads, or roasted for crunchy kale chips. The options are endless! 

Carrots 

Did you know carrots get their orange pigment from an antioxidant called beta carotene? It’s a natural compound found in plant-based foods that gets converted into vitamin A in the body. Carrots also contain potassium, vitamin C, fiber, and other antioxidants like lutein. This viral Carrot Ribbon Salad is super simple and fresh and is a great way to use up a bundle of carrots. 

Alive! Men's Gummy in a picnic basket with superfoods

Nature’s Way Alive!® Superfood Antioxidant‡ Formula 

Select Nature’s Way Alive! Multivitamins are formulated with a Superfood Antioxidant‡ powder blend so you can get essential nutrients you need for your wellness along with Superfood Antioxidants‡. This unique powder blend provides ‡10 mg polyphenols (plant antioxidant compounds) per serving from pomegranate extract, spinach, blueberry, carrot, and apple extract. 

Alive! Multivitamins with Superfood Antioxidants‡: 


Shop our full selection of Alive! multivitamins here.