BOKS Springtime Produce Picks!

05/28/19

Spring is a time for regrowth and rebirth, which starts right under our feet in the soil. Once the snow melts and the sun begins to come out, all kinds of new growth begins, starting one of our favorite seasons for the best produce!

The new beginning of Spring can also lends itself to changes in habits and behavior – this is a great time to incorporate new foods into kids’ diets to get them out of their picky-eater lifestyle. There are so many delicious and unusual fruits and veggies that are only available this time of year. Some of our Springtime favorites include:

 

Artichokes

  • Artichokes can be an intimidating to cook and serve, but don’t be scared: They’re actually incredibly Image result for grilled artichokes easy to make, and even easier to gobble up! Our favorite way to prepare these flowers is to cut them in half, boil in water for 15 minutes, and lay they straight on a hot grill until just charred – the leaves will fully cook so they become easier to eat. Eating artichokes is so fun, it’s almost like playing with your food! Try serving artichokes with dinner as a fun new vegetable your kids are sure to love. (Image courtesy of here)

 

 

GrapefruitImage result for grapefruit salad

  • Grapefruit can sometimes lean towards the bitter side, but during springtime they come to ripe, and it’s no longer necessary to pile sugar on top of grapefruit halves as some often do. Add grapefruit slices to salads to add a bright punch – you can even use some grapefruit juice and oil to make a salad dressing! (Image courtesy of here)

 

 

 

 

Sugar Snap Peas

  • Sweet as candy! These crunchy delights are good enough to eat by themselves. Having your kids helpImage result for sugar snap peas kids you de-shell fresh snow peas for cooking can be a great way to get them into the kitchen (and they can snack on the fiber-filled shells as they go!) (Image courtesy of here)

 

 

 

 

Grapefruit, Mint, and Pea Spring Salad

Ingredients

  • 2 Ruby Red grapefruit
  • 1 1/2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
  • 6 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 5 oz. mixed baby greens
  • Sea salt and black pepper
  • 2 tbsp. thinly sliced fresh mint
  • ~½ cup sugar snap peas, shelled

 

  • Cut a slice off the top and bottom of the grapefruit. Stand 1 grapefruit, cut-side down, on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, cut around the curve of the fruit, removing the peel and white pith. Working over a medium bowl to catch the juice, cut between the membranes to release the segments into the bowl. Repeat with the remaining grapefruit.
  • Take the fresh peas out of their shells- this can be a great think for kids to do while you cut the grapefruit.
  • Strain 2 tbsp. of the juice into a small bowl. Add the vinegar, then gradually whisk in the EVOO.
  • In a large bowl, toss the greens and dressing; season with sea salt and black pepper. Top with the grapefruit segments, peas and the mint.

(recipe adapted from here)

Make this recipe, or any other springtime favorites? Share with us on social media #BOKSkids for a chance to be featured!