Spring is in full force and the markets are filling with the results. It pleases me so to find pencil thin asparagus, tender green beans and bright red strawberries in my local farmer's market. Great produce is a wonderful inspiration for creative cooking. Choosing and using the freshest of the season's bounty makes fabulous food easy. Simple preparations become delectable letting the bright flavors of the produce shine through.
If vegetables and fruits inspire you as well, you'll want to check out the following web sites. Each is filled with recipes, ideas, and inspiration for using fresh vegetables and fruits to brighten your meals.
- The Produce Corner is a weekly show on the TV Food Network which offers a variety of information on fresh fruits and vegetables
- The Del Monte site offers recipes for Pineapples, Melons and Bananas. You can also give them some demographic info and they'll send you a recipe and entertaining booklet.
- OASIS tout's itself as a one stop source for information on vegetables and fruits. The recipes aren't quite there yet, but the reference table is useable.
- ReadyPac, the people who package up lettuce mixes in a bags, offers recipe and health information at it's extensive website.
- The SunMaid site offers recipes using their dried fruits.
Those living in or near a large metropolis area may be lucky enough to have ethnic markets nearby which offer a great selection of eclectic choices. Asian markets (Japanese, Chinese, Thai, etc.) often carry exotic fruits and vegetables as do Latin American and Indian shops. These are a great starting point for a culinary adventure! For the creative cooks out there, these sites can guide you through the myriad of exotic produce available in many areas of the USA.
- The tourism authority of Thailand site offers cryptic descriptions in broken English of Thai fruits and herbs. Not only educational, but entertaining as well!
- Freida's who market exotic fruits and vegetables has a website with a searchable database of recipes. They have a section devoted to unusual or specialty vegetables. Great inspiration!
- The Wonderful World of Guavas - the fruits of one man's obsession
I'm sure there are more sites out there. Do you have a favorite produce, fruit or vegetable site? Post it below in the discussion area for all to share!
Enjoy!
VickieMc - Culinary Vixen
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