Spring has sprung! Spring means so many things– warmer weather, more sunshine, colorful flowers, and great seasonal foods– especially produce!
Springtime brings some great seasonal produce. Everything is fresh and full– bright colors, bountiful greens, and food that is good for you.
At Caputo’s, we buy fresh produce daily. We follow the same process that our founder, Angelo, did when we started in 1958. Our produce buyers are up early every morning in order to get the freshest products at the best possible prices in our stores that same day.
Here are 4 of our favorite spring foods, some ideas of what to do with them, and how to pick them!
Pineapple
Now is the time for the juiciest pineapple! Pineapple is a great anti-inflammatory, can aid in reducing sinus issues, is good for digestion, and more.
Pineapples are great on their own, but with their juicy taste, they are also very versatile. Try making a pineapple salsa for your chips or tacos, make a pineapple upside down cake, blend it for your favorite smoothies, top it with tajin for a spicy snack, or grill it!
How to pick: Pineapple should be gold in color with strong, green leaves on the crown. There shouldn’t be many soft spots and it should be on the heavier side. If you can smell the sweetness coming through the bottom of the pineapple, then you know you have a good one! Pineapple can be time consuming to clean and cut. If you want to enjoy, but don’t want to take the time to clean a pineapple, stop by our cut fruit section and pick up some pre-cleaned and cut ones for you!
Asparagus
Spring is when asparagus reaches its peak! Asparagus is rich in folic acid, protects against cell damage, is good for your health, and low in calories. Asparagus makes for a great, creamy soup, can compliment most pasta and risotto dishes, is yummy with prosciutto, bacon, or pancetta, can be a side to any dish, and is great in a frittata!
How to pick: Asparagus should be a deep green color with some purple undertones that fades to white as it reaches the bottom of the stalk. The stalk should be firm and straight. The tip should be relatively closed.
Blueberries
Blueberries reach their peak starting right about now in April and will continue to be in season through the summer. Blueberries are known for their high antioxidants which means they help fight oxidative stress, fight disease, and more. They are high in vitamins and low in sugar which makes it great for regulating blood sugar. They are actually often considered a super fruit!
Blueberries are great in salads, in yogurt or oatmeal, make blueberry scones or muffins, or make a pie or a crumble!
How to pick: Blueberries should be pretty even in size and have a plump, firm skin. The color should be a deep color.
Arugula
Arugula is a green that is harvested young, so it is great in early spring through fall! Arugula is nutritionally strong and known for its high levels of vitamins and minerals, like calcium, folate, vitamin c, vitamin k, and vitamin A– just to name a few. Arugula can be used in so much. You can use it in a salad– try it with some fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and salt for a light salad or a heartier salad with fresh fruits and nuts! It is great on a pizza, in a sandwich, or in a homemade pesto.
How to pick: You want a bright green color with strong leaves. The arugula should look dry. At home, you can store your arugula in an airtight container with paper towels to extend its shelf life.
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