New Year’s Eve can be a celebration of taste, health, and sustainability. The international initiative “I Love Fruit & Veg from Europe,” supported by Agritalia, AOA, La Deliziosa, Meridia, and Terra Orti, and co-funded by the European Commission, champions the purchase and consumption of high-quality European fruits and vegetables in the United Kingdom. This project highlights the importance of fresh, organic, and PDO/PGI-certified produce, especially during the festive season, promoting balanced, wholesome eating for families and food enthusiasts alike.
A Growing Trend for Fresh Produce
Vegetables and fruits are increasingly taking centre stage in festive menus, both at home and in fine dining. Their natural flavours, combined with health benefits, make them ideal for every course, from starters to desserts. This trend underscores the growing popularity of authentic, locally sourced foods that showcase their geographical origins.
To inspire healthier celebrations, “I Love Fruit & Veg from Europe” presents a menu that is both elegant and nutritious. Starters include a delightful ratatouille prepared with peppers, aubergines, courgettes, tomatoes, and onions. For the main course, an asparagus risotto with prawns and crispy leeks offers a luxurious yet healthy option. To round off the meal, a Sicilian Caprese cake made with blood oranges and cinnamon adds a festive and fruity touch.
Embracing Seasonal Versatility
The versatility of seasonal vegetables plays a key role in festive cooking. Ingredients like cabbage, spinach, carrots, broccoli, and pumpkins can be transformed into delicious, nutrient-rich dishes. Pulses such as lentils and beans, rich in plant-based proteins and fibre, are perfect companions for creating balanced meals.
Seasonal fruits also shine during New Year’s celebrations. Apples, pears, and clementines, bursting with sweetness and essential vitamins, make for wonderful desserts or snacks. Additionally, dried fruits such as walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts add a traditional yet healthy twist to festive tables.
A Mission for Health and Sustainability
The overarching aim of “I Love Fruit & Veg from Europe” is to promote mindful consumption that supports environmental sustainability and public health. European fruits and vegetables are not only delicious but also cultivated with care, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The project seeks to raise awareness about the importance of eating fresh produce for improved health while reducing food-related carbon footprints.
Despite the availability of high-quality fruits and vegetables, statistics reveal that Europeans consume only 40% of the recommended daily intake of fruits and just over 20% of the recommended vegetables. This project encourages individuals to bridge this gap by incorporating more fresh produce into their diets, particularly during celebrations.
A New Year, A New Approach
The festive season is the perfect time to embrace fresh, wholesome ingredients and prioritise sustainable living. With its focus on quality, health, and environmental consciousness, the “I Love Fruit & Veg from Europe” campaign inspires a healthier start to the New Year, encouraging people to savour the best of European agriculture while making thoughtful food choices.
By adopting these practices, Britons can enjoy New Year’s celebrations that are both indulgent and aligned with the principles of sustainability and health.
New Year’s Eve Menu:
Ratatouille
https://ilovefruitandvegfromeurope.com/it/ricette/ratatouille/
Risotto with asparagus, prawns and crispy leeks
https://ilovefruitandvegfromeurope.com/it/ricette/risotto-asparagi-gamberi-e-porro-croccante/
Caprese cake with blood oranges and cinnamon
https://ilovefruitandvegfromeurope.com/it/ricette/torta-caprese-siciliana-con-arancia-rossa-e-cannella/
Happy New Year!