By Sakshi Arora
Saag, often associated with the winter season, is packed with vitamins and minerals and is considered one of the most savoured leafy greens. These greens are recognised as supplements loaded with numerous health benefits, which are sure to please every palate. With many leafy greens delights available all across the country, apart from the obvious variations, we have rounded up a list of 7 saags that you can relish during the warmer months or summer season. These greens can cure common illnesses and give a hearty variation to the basic diet. Also Read: 7 Seasonal Leafy Green Vegetables And Tasty Ways To Eat Them Amaranth/ ChaulaiAmaranth greens or chaulai are commonly known for their health benefits. Resembling spinach in appearance, amaranth leaves are finally found in the foothills of the Himalayas. Historically, this summer veggie comes in a different range of colours, including red and green, and is considered a staple food for ancient civilisations. Colocasia leaves Colocasia or arbi ke patte are used in preparing wholesome dishes which are sure to please every palate. The big heart-shaped leaves are loaded with minerals and vitamins and are used to prepare traditional dishes like patrode, coconut stew with leaves and more. The leaves are widely used in regions like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bengal and Bihar. Kalmi saag/water spinachWater spinach grows wild like a weed, and it is known as anna soppu in Karnataka. Grows along river banks. This summer saag is a mix of crunchy hollow stems and long arrow shaped leaves. The leaves have a mild and savoury flavour, which is high in protein and nutritional content, making it a delightful culinary item. The kalmi leaves are prepared into a sweet, sour, spicy chutney in Karnataka. Fiddlehead ferns Fiddlehead ferns are small coils that are tightly knit. They are vibrant and bright green and often consumed as saag by the natives of Uttarakhand. Fiddleheads taste grassy, sweet like asparagus and crunchy like green beans. With a meaty texture and tangy flavour, this coiled texture and excessive health benefits make the plant unique and pricey. This tender lingdu plant contains immense minerals and vitamins which can fulfil the body’s lacking needs. Malabar spinachAlso known as Poui saag, these nutrient-dense leaves and numerous health benefits. Malabar spinach is low in calories, and these high fibre leaves help with digestion and promote cellular healing. This veggie is popular in tropical and sub-tropical regions. The leaves have a mild, slightly peppery flavour with a hint of citrus. Moringa / Sehjan ke patte Moringa or sehjan ke patte has high levels of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which are considered a healthy addition to meals. Moringa leaves are grown on the miracle tree, and can be added to fish, chicken and egg dishes. These leaves also have nine essential amino acids and are considered a great substitute for meat dishes, too. Helencha/Buffalo SpinachBuffalo spinach or helancha is a leafy green which is used in curries and stews, and is also known for its medicinal properties. Helencha saag has a unique taste which makes it different from regular saag variants. This saag is slightly bitter, which is believed to be a great ingredient for overall health.