13 Summer Recipes for Glowing Skin & Sun Protection

Did you know some of your favorite plant-based foods can help your skin glow and handle the summer sun a little better? We’ve rounded up some of our go-to recipes that are packed with UV-defensive ingredients, naturally supporting your body’s ability to repair, protect, and glow. Here are some recipes for glowing skin that embrace a plant-based lifestyle! 

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Avocado Blueberry Smoothie

Avocado provides heart-healthy fats, blueberries deliver vitamin C and antioxidants.

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Spinach Apple Walnut Salad

Spinach is high in vitamin A for skin health, and walnuts provide omega-3 fats while apple and dressing add vitamin C and antioxidants.

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Carrot and Spinach Juice Shots

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A) and vitamin C, spinach adds antioxidants which protects skin from sun damage.

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Easy Kale and Quinoa Salad

Kale and spring greens deliver vitamins A/C/K. The toasted sunflower seeds add vitamin E.

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Watermelon Smoothie Recipe

Watermelon supplies vitamins A and C and lycopene (a potent antioxidant) help protect your skin from sunburn.

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Many of our smoothies and fresh juices are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and carotenoids that support skin health and help protect against UV damage.

Savory Carrot Tart

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A) and bell peppers supply vitamin C; chia seeds add omega-3 fatty acids.

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Red Bell Pepper Carrot Juice

Red peppers add vitamin C and lycopene, carrots add vitamin A; combined antioxidants support collagen and combat UV damage.

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Heart of Palm Ceviche Recipe

Hearts of palm and avocado bring omega-3s; lime/pineapple add vitamin C and bromelain (anti-inflammatory).

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Peach Blueberry Smoothie (3 ingredients)

Peaches and blueberries supply vitamins A, C, E and antioxidants; vitamin C aids collagen production for firm skin.

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Hawaiian Tofu Rice Bowl

Pineapple and broccoli provide vitamin C and antioxidants; sesame seeds add healthy fats and minerals, supporting skin health.

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Ingredients like leafy greens, seeds, beans, and colorful veggies in our meals, bring in skin-loving, anti-inflammatory nutrients like zinc, polyphenols, omega-3s, and vitamin E.

Almond Milk Berry Smoothie

Berries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which “help reduce skin wrinkling” by neutralizing free radicals.

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Cold Spanish Soup (Gazpacho Andaluz)

This refreshing soup is packed with raw tomatoes (rich in lycopene, a natural sun protectant), cucumbers (hydration), red bell peppers (vitamin C), and olive oil (vitamin E)—a skin-loving, anti-inflammatory combo perfect for hot days.

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Vegan Chickpea Salad

Chickpeas (legume) provide zinc and protein; avocado contributes healthy fats (vitamin E).

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NOTE: Of course, eating well is just one piece of the puzzle— they’re meant to supplement, NOT replace essential, external sun protection. Please remember to always wear SPF, protective clothing, and take the proper precautions when spending time outdoors this summer.

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⭐ If you try any of these recipes, let us know! 💬 Leave a comment, rate it, and don't forget to tag us @ourplantbasedworld on Instagram. Cheers!

Natasha Gomez Akel

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As the creative force behind OPBW, Natasha is a dedicated stay-at-home mom and passionate home chef. She infuses every recipe and personal care tip with love and practicality. Balancing family life with culinary adventures, she crafts wholesome, family-friendly dishes and effective, natural beauty solutions that are both approachable and inspiring. Her hands-on experience and personal touch make OPBW a go-to resource for delicious meals and self-care ideas that fit seamlessly into everyday life.

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