A is for Artichoke - Vitamins C and K Did you know that an artichoke is a thistle originating in the Mediterranean? What we eat is actually the buds of a purple flower that can grow more than 3 feet tall. Artichokes are high in antioxidants and are a great source of vitamins C and K. Artichokes are in season at the Market, so here are some tips for buying the best:
Feel the weight. The heavier and firmer the better. Look for leaves that have a healthy green color and compact center.
Remember that artichokes come in different sizes and the size has nothing to do with ripeness. Jumbo or softball-size; large or baseball-size; medium or tennis ball-size and finally the baby, a golf ball-size...they are all delicious. Check out the side bar for a great recipe.
B is for Broccoli - Vitamins C and D
Broccoli is a plant in the cabbage family and is rich in vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune system functioning. Together with calcium, vitamin D also helps protect older adults from osteoporosis.
A vegetable that we know George H. W. Bush does not like, "I do not like broccoli… And I'm President of the United States and I'm not going to eat any more broccoli." Oh well, we like it and have many varieties fresh and ready to enjoy in any number of ways. The broccoli recipes this week include a lighter, healthier version of the broccoli casserole and a deliciously easy side dish.
C is for Carrot - Vitamins A, E and K
This week, Market carrots come in a wide variety of shapes, colors and sizes. Carrots can be as small as two inches or as long as three feet, ranging in diameter from one-half of an inch to over two inches. Colors include white, yellow, red, or purple.
The bright orange color comes from beta-carotene, partly metabolized into vitamin A in humans. Vitamin A is good for our vision. Hot or cold, carrot soup is an easy to make, yet complex tasting soup. Here is a recipe from local chef Mollie Katzen and her famous Moosewood Cookbook. Add a salad and some bread from the Market and you are ready to eat.
Happy shopping. See you Sunday.
Chris Hall
Your Market Manager (AKA El Jefe)
Fred McCarty
Fred McCarty travels from coast-to-coast carrying his Six String, singing his Country originals, Texas Swing, Cajun tunes and Classic Cowboy songs.
