When it comes to the freshest and most flavorful produce, a little bit of knowledge goes a long way. Here are some tips and tricks for picking the best of the season by using your senses.
When choosing scallions feel and look. Bulbs should be firm and white. Tops should be green and crisp.
When choosing summer squash look for squash with skin that is shiny and taut. Pass on squash that looks dull or has soft spots.
When choosing sweet potatoes or yams feel and look. They should be firm and free of blemishes.
When choosing Swiss chard feel and look. Stalks should be crisp, and leaves should be bright and not wilted.
When choosing tomatillos look for green tomatillos with green husks.
When choosing tomatoes feel, smell, and look. Tomatoes should feel heavy for their size and should smell earthy at the stem end. Pass on tomatoes with wrinkly skin.
When choosing turnips feel them. Turnips should feel firm and heavy for their size. Small turnips will be sweeter and more tender than larger turnips.
When choosing winter squash feel and look. Squash should feel heavy for their size and stems should be intact. Pass on squash with cuts or soft spots.
Once you get the hang of how to use your senses with choosing produce, you’ll be serving up the cream of the crop!