Spring is finally here in full force, and there are a variety of delicious fruits and vegetables now in season! Check out these three seasonal offerings, along with a few scrumptious ideas on how to use them!
Basil
There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh basil. Earthy, bright, and invigorating, this luscious herb is excellent in sauces, salsas, and leaf forms. A couple of ways to enjoy its full flavor include a classic Caprese salad and one of many variations on basil pesto. This unique pesto recipe calls for blanching the leaves first, which the author claims will result in a thicker, creamier, better-emulsified result. One thing to note is that it’s not necessary to use expensive pine nuts in your pesto. Most any delicious nut will do, such as hazelnuts, walnuts, or almonds. You also don’t need to use parmesan if you’re dairy-free. You also might try zapping your garlic for about 15 seconds in the microwave beforehand. This makes it easier to peel and reduces its spiciness.
Tomatoes
Fresh, seasonal tomatoes have such a bright, rich, summery flavor! It can be easy to forget these little wonders are fruit and not vegetables, but it’s true. And like other fruit, they can be made into a delicious jam that plays great with your favorite baked goods, as well as savory favorites like crispy pork belly. Check out this recipe for pork belly and tomato jam “burgers” by Baker By Nature.
Green Beans
Nothing says spring like the snap of a crisp and fresh green bean. Eat them fresh, in a potato salad, or on their own. Or toss them into a casserole, serve on the side of your next niçoise salad creation, or make them the star of a delicious, spicy Sichuan dish served alongside fresh rice. Sichuan Green Beans are fried dry and tossed with pork, ginger, garlic, chilis, and Sichuan peppercorns, setting your mouth on fire, even as you go back for more. They’re also great with tofu, if pork isn't your jam. Here’s a recipe for the meaty version!
For more tips on what you should be eating, check out the Fusion Apartments blog.