With the warmer weather comes delicious fruits and veggies. There are so many benefits to including fruits and veggies in your meals on a regular basis. They are packed with antioxidants, phytonutrients, and flavonoids, all of which help your health. Most people know how to pick out delicious strawberries, but beets, Swiss Chard, and Zucchini can be a little more difficult.  Here are some guidelines to follow along with some delicious recipes.

Beets

Picking

Choose beets that are firm with smooth skin. Be sure that the leaves are not wilted.

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Storing

Remove leaves leaving one inch of stem. Store the beets in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Be sure to wash right before using.

Recipe

Roasted Beets (http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/roasted-beets-recipe.html)

 

 

Swiss Chard

Picking

Garlic-Swiss-Chard-FoodieCrush.com-015Choose Swiss chard with bright green leaves that a not wilted or discolored.  Wash immediately before using.
Storing

Store in plastic bags in the crisper drawer for 2-3 days.

Recipe

Garlicky Swiss Chard and Chickpeas (http://www.foodiecrush.com/2013/04/garlicky-swiss-chard-and-chickpeas/)

Zucchini

Picking

Choose zucchini with a shiny skin that is slightly prickly. It should be firm to touch without and cuts.Grilled-Zucchini-Nachos-6
Storing

Store zucchini in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

Recipe

Oven Roasted Zucchini (http://www.craftaholicsanonymous.net/simple-oven-roasted-zucchini-recipe)

Zucchini Nachos (http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/grilled-zucchini-nachos/)

 

 

 

Suzanne Doerries

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