I don't know about you guys, but I like to root for the underdog. The underdog is typically quirky, and has a unique look and personality. A real one of a kind. Heirloom (also called heritage or antique) apple varieties are the black sheep of the apple world. The fruits have imperfect exteriors laden with spots, strips and different colors. Each varieties' texture and flavor is different, too. Some are crisp and sweet, while others are tough-skinned and tart.

What are those voluptuously round, green spheres dangling from the large-leafed trees along the streets of Los Angeles? They look like fresh figs, but are they? If the round, green spheres you’re seeing at this time of year are the same ones I’m seeing (and I bet that they are), you are indeed looking at fresh figs. And they are incredible. Once ripe, pluck these gems before they go out of season, and save yourself a bundle on an expensive delicacy while foraging them from an urban oasis.

Few things on this earth are more delicious than homemade ice cream with fresh berries -- but sadly, eating high-fat ice cream every day is not nutritionist-recommended. This recipe, adapted from Earthbound Farm's incredible Food To Live By, replaces the cream with yogurt for an intensely flavorful, creamy treat that's actually pretty healthy. The trick? Straining the yogurt and replacing the liquid with raspberries.

Holy cow! Or in this case, holy plants! When it comes to non-dairy alternatives to cow’s milk there are gallons of plant-based options to choose from. Rice, nut, hemp, soy, coconut, oat… where’s a non-dairy milk beginner supposed to start? Well, begin by skimming cow’s milk off your grocery list—for good.

With over 8,000 varieties, rice feeds the world! And while we all know 'brown' is healthier than 'white'... we might be challenged to answer the "why" question when the little ones ask. And, "because it is"  isn't really an answer, now is it? Get clued in on the lowdown with rice and you'll have a much more informed (and persuasive) dialogue.

The phrase “She’s gone avocado” is often used to describe someone who has relocated to California geographically and mentally and now has the yoga mat, alternative health therapist and locally grown sustainable organic produce to prove it – including plenty of the sunny state’s beloved avocado (of course).

Here’s one of my favorite summer dessert recipes. It’s no-bake, vegan and can be completely raw, if desired. Bonus: It takes about, oh, 5 minutes to prepare. Really. These no-bake brownie bites are completely addictive, but unlike regular sugar and flour based brownies, these are chock-full of heart-healthy nuts and stomach-friendly dates. So you can indulge in a bite (or two) and rest assured you’re giving your body a bit of nutrients with your wholesome dessert, not just refined starches. Bon appetite!

Melons, peaches and berries… their season fades almost as soon as it begins. But cookies, well, it's no surprise that they comfort us year round. Summerize your chocolate chip fix with this super easy vegan no bake cookie recipe loaded with healthy ingredients. And don't worry; they taste a lot guiltier than they actually are.

For home gardeners, green peas are a dream crop. They can handle heat and freezing, which means you can plant them early and, with succession planting, keep them going into the summer. And fresh off the vine, they taste sweeter than candy. Alas, in most parts of the country pea season is coming to its natural end. Whether you've got peas coming out your ears or haven't shelled one in your life, now's the moment to eat as many as possible before they're gone for the summer.

Roasting peppers brings out their natural sweetness and juicy flavors. A necessary ingredient in many authentic Mexican dishes, roasting them is actually fun and easy. You score DIY points too because doing it yourself is also a lot cheaper than choosing store bought brands swimming in chemical preservatives, not to mention one less empty jar going to a landfill. (And once you taste the difference, you'll never go back!) Have fun exploring these techniques for home-roasted peppers.