VEGGIE'S

Plant Powered Goodness

Radish

Radishes (Raphanus sativus) are crisp and zesty root vegetables belonging to the Brassicaceae family. Known for their vibrant colors and peppery flavor, radishes are a popular addition to salads and snacks worldwide.

Cooking Tips for Radishes

Storing Radishes: Store radishes in the refrigerator and use them within a week for optimal freshness. Remove the tops before storing to keep them crisp.
Preparation: Radishes can be enjoyed raw in salads, pickled for added tanginess, or roasted to bring out their natural sweetness.
Pairing: Radishes pair well with fresh herbs, citrus, creamy dips, and grilled meats.
Creative Uses: Try thinly sliced radishes on sandwiches for added crunch, or incorporate them into slaws and stir-fries for a unique twist.

Garlic

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a pungent and versatile member of the onion family (Amaryllidaceae), prized for its culinary and medicinal properties. Originating from Central Asia, garlic is now cultivated globally and celebrated for its distinctive flavor and health benefits.

Cooking Tips for Garlic

Storing Garlic: Store garlic bulbs in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Use within a few weeks for optimal freshness.
Preparation: To release garlic's flavor, crush, chop, or mince cloves before cooking. Roasting whole cloves mellows their intensity.
Pairing: Garlic enhances savory dishes such as pasta, stir-fries, roasted meats, and sauces. It complements herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary.
Health Benefits: Garlic is reputed for its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, including immune support and heart health.

Carrots

Carrots (Daucus carota) are crisp and sweet root vegetables belonging to the Apiaceae family. Known for their vibrant orange color and versatility, carrots are enjoyed raw, cooked, and juiced worldwide.

Cooking Tips for Carrots

Storing Carrots: Store carrots in the refrigerator, ideally in a plastic bag to retain moisture. Remove the tops before storing.
Preparation: Carrots can be eaten raw as snacks or salads, steamed as a side dish, roasted for caramelized sweetness, or juiced for refreshing drinks.
Pairing: Carrots pair well with herbs like dill and parsley, spices such as cumin and ginger, and creamy dips like hummus or yogurt-based sauces.
Nutritional Benefits: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, vitamins, and fiber, promoting eye health, immune function, and digestion.

Long Italian Eggplants

Long Italian Eggplants (Solanum melongena) are slender, versatile vegetables belonging to the nightshade family (Solanaceae). Originating in India, they are now cultivated globally, prized for their mild flavor and meaty texture.

Cooking Tips for Long Italian Eggplants

Storing: Store eggplants in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator. Use within a few days for optimal freshness.
Preparation: Slice or dice eggplants for grilling, roasting, sautéing, or frying. Salting slices before cooking can reduce bitterness.
Pairing: Long Italian eggplants pair well with tomatoes, garlic, basil, and cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. They are ideal for dishes such as Eggplant Parmesan, Ratatouille, or grilled eggplant sandwiches.
Health Benefits: Eggplants are low in calories and rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, supporting heart health and digestion.

Jersey Tomatoes

Jersey Tomatoes are renowned for their rich flavor, thanks to the fertile soils of New Jersey. Bursting with sweetness and juiciness, these tomatoes are prized for their versatility in culinary dishes.

Cooking Tips for Jersey Tomatoes

Storing: Store Jersey tomatoes at room temperature to maintain their flavor and texture. Avoid refrigeration, as it can diminish their taste.
Preparation: Enjoy Jersey tomatoes sliced fresh in salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for burgers. They also shine in sauces, soups, and salsas.
Pairing: Jersey tomatoes pair perfectly with fresh basil, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. They elevate the flavors of pasta dishes, bruschettas, and grilled meats.
Nutritional Benefits: Jersey tomatoes are packed with vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, promoting overall health and well-being.