Did you know that carrots come in different varieties like orange, white, red, yellow, purple and even black? Activity: try the different varieties to see if there are any differences in the flavors or textures! Selection Always choose carrots that are brightly colored and feel firm. Avoid carrots that feel limp or are sprouting. Storage … Read more
Winter squash is part of the gourd family, there are several varieties: Tips To ease prep, cook winter squash in its skin whenever possible. To make peeling easier, halve or quarter winter squash. Save the seeds—toss with olive oil and salt, then bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Sweet potatoes can be replaced by winter … Read more
Did you know that sweet potatoes are not related to the potato but are actually part of the morning glory family? Check out these tips and recipes for more “sweet” information:
Tips & Fun Facts: Apples are in the Rosaceae (rose) family, along with almonds, cherries, peaches, pears, plums, raspberries, and strawberries. The only apples native to North America are crab apples. Apple trees must cross-pollinate in order to produce fruit; therefore, they need to be planted within approximately 100 feet of another cultivated apple tree variety, crab apple tree, or wild apple tree. … Read more
October is National Cranberry Month! Check out these cranberry tips and recipes to add a pop of color and flavor to foods and beverages! Storage and Preparation Peak cranberry season is from October-December. Fresh cranberries should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in a crisper for about three to four weeks. Cranberries freeze very well, either whole … Read more
Fall is definitely the season for everything pumpkin! Try making pumpkin recipes at home with fresh pumpkins using these tips (or use canned pumpkin puree!): Selection & Preparation The best type of pumpkin for cooking is a “pie pumpkin” or “sweet pumpkin.” These are smaller than carving pumpkins and the flesh is sweeter and less watery. Figure one … Read more
Fresh produce, especially when abundant in the summer months, can easily go to waste if we don’t have a plan for it. To avoid tossing produce: Create a meal plan and use fresh produce in the beginning of the menu to use it up faster. Consider having a leftover night on the menu or a soup/stew … Read more
Cucumbers are for more than just pickles. I personally enjoy a cucumber sandwich on toast with fresh picked cucumbers from the garden. Here are some other ideas for you! Top 10 Ways to Use Cucumbers Add One More! Rack up one more veggie during the day by adding finely diced, peeled and seeded cucumber to chicken, … Read more
Sweet, juicy peaches are the best! There are many uses for peaches: Eating as is, adding to hot or cold cereal, smoothies, chilled soups, added to pancakes, or used in baking. One thing is for sure, peaches create an amazing flavorful experience. See below for tips and recipes! Selection, Storage, and Preparation Ripe peaches should be stored in … Read more
Sure, watermelon is typically a staple at barbecues but this fruit can be used for so much more! See some ideas below: Selection & Storage Melons should be free of cracks, dark bruises, or soft spots. Select a melon that is fragrant as it is a clue to its ripeness. A ripe melon will … Read more