Tomatoes are an ancient crop, thought to have originated in Central America centuries ago. While the tomato has become associated with Mediterranean cuisine, they were are relatively late arrive to the European pantry, not arriving until the 16th century. FIELD GROWN USDA STANDARDS US #1 US Combination US #2 US #3 SIZING Sizing of round tomatoes is…
Pattypan and Sunburst squash are summer squash, which are are the young fruit of Cucurbita pepo and members of the Cucurbitaceae family. They are a variety of marrow squash. Melons and cucumber also share in the family tree and are Cucurbits. There are two “types” of squash: summer squash and winter squash. What is the difference?…
The parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is not a carrot. It might look like a pale carrot, it might taste somewhat like a carrot, but it is not a carrot. The parsnip is a relative of the parsley family, and to look at the leaves, you will see the resemblance. However, they are usually sold commercially without…
Looking at it, you would think fennel is related to celery, but it is in fact, related to the carrot. There is a seed variety and a vegetable variety. The vegetable you eat is commonly “Florence fennel” (Foeniculum vulgare) is sweet and has that classic edible swollen stem. It is also referred to as Finocchio…
Collard greens are members of the Brassica oleracea acephala group, which means, they grow without a head–like a cabbage would. We all know fruits and vegetables are healthy, but certain members of the Brassica group, known as Cruciferous vegetables, carry with them some known health benefits. As the plant-based trend moves mainstream, certain vegetables can…
The cucumber (Cucumis sativus L) is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, and belongs to the same family as squash and melons. It grows on a climbing plant that is 3 to 10 feet long; the plant’s tendrils allow it to cling to other plants or objects. The fruit emerges after the plant’s large yellow…
Red cabbage is a member of the Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata group. We all know fruits and vegetables are healthy, but certain members of the Brassica group, known as Cruciferous vegetables, carry with them some known health benefits, a quick Google search will find dozens of sources to read. In the case of red…
Green cabbage is a member of the Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata group. We all know fruits and vegetables are healthy, but certain members of the Brassica group, known as Cruciferous vegetables, carry with them some known health benefits. There are many varieties of cabbage grown, but green (white) or red cabbage are the most…
Belonging to the Brassica family, specifically the Brassica Rapa Chinensis group, Bok choy is also known as Pak-choi, Chinese white cabbage, Tsoi sum, and Yow choy. There are many varieties grown, but they mostly come in two sizes: full size and baby. Baby Bok choy is also called Shanghai bok choy. Bok choy has crisp,…
Perfect to roast!
Squash and pumpkins are members of the Cucurbitaceae family. Other family members are melons and cucumbers. The USDA has two grades for hard or winter squashes: US #1 or US#2. Both are based mainly on external factors including blemishes, scarring, uniformity of size shape, and color for the variety… as well as some other internal factors……
Beautiful waxy, intensely colored red and white leaves have a bitter taste that lends itself well to salads. It is also sturdy enough to be grilled.
Butternut Squash are members of the Cucurbitaceae family, along with pumpkins. Other family members are melons and cucumbers. The USDA has two grades for hard or winter squashes: US #1 or US#2. Both are based mainly on external factors including blemishes, scarring, uniformity of size shape, and color for the variety… as well as some…
Usage: Baby spinach is great for use in salads as it has a sweeter taste. Phytochemical: Beta-carotene, Lutein and Zeaxanthin Color: Light – medium green Shape: Small, ovate to triangular. Skin Texture: Smooth; delicate. Taste: Succulent; sweeter taste than standard smooth leaf spinach probably owing to its reduced concentration of oxalic acid. Flesh Description: Tender,…
Health: Radish greens are high in vitamin C, which is a cancer-fighting antioxidant. Usage: Radishes are most often used in salads and vegetable trays. Taste: Radishes have a bold, spicy flavor. Scientific Name: Raphanus sativus. Receiving Information: Pithy or spongy texture: Indication of age. Always inspect radishes carefully upon arrival to ensure good quality product….
Usage: Good bakers, but are also good in other roles, making them basically all-purpose potatoes. These potatoes can be boiled, baked, fried or mashed. But they tend to fall apart if over-cooked. Taste: Rich, buttery flavor. Flesh Description: Rich, waxy golden, buttery flesh Shape: Slightly flat and oval in shape. Skin Texture: Thin skin. Outside…
Health: Potatoes are a good source of potassium Usage: Potatoes are most often eaten cooked. They are usually baked, fried, boiled or grilled. Taste: Potatoes have a neutral, starchy taste. Scientific Name: Solanum tuberosum Linnaeus. Receiving Information: Selection: Consumers should look for potatoes that are solid and heavy for their size. Potatoes with soft spots…
Usage: Good for eating fresh, freezing, canning. Taste: Nutty Storage Quality: Round seeds with long, straight pods Shape: Rumpled Outside Coloring: Silvery green Flesh Description: Tender, meaty The different varieties of beans contain different nutrients that promote health including fiber, folate and vitamin C that help to prevent cancer. Beans can be found to be…
Yellow squash are summer squash, which are are the young fruit of Cucurbita pepo and members of the Cucurbitaceae family. They are a variety of marrow squash. Cantaloupe and cucumber also share in that family tree and are Cucurbits. There are two “types” of squash: summer squash and winter squash. What is the difference? The short answer is,…
Zucchini squash are summer squash, which are are the young fruit of Cucurbita pepo and members of the Cucurbitaceae family. They are a variety of marrow squash that resembles a large cucumber. Cantaloupe and cucumber also share in that family tree and are Cucurbits. There are two “types” of squash: summer squash and winter squash. What is the…