January Produce Report from Howie's Market

Happy New Year! January is a beginning of a new year. With the holidays behind us, it’s time to get back to our regular and healthy diet. Choose fruits and vegetables that are delicious and good for our health, like avocados and broccoli.

Avocados are a heart-healthy, nutrient-dense superfood that provide substantial amount of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients with relatively low calories. Avocados are also the only fruit that contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fat-good fat! Most of the avocados are imported from Mexico, where peak growing season extends from November to February. This is when dark-skinned Hass avocados are at their creamiest, and the prices go down. Try them in wraps, salads, and, of course, dips. To find ripe avocados in the pile, look for those that have a little give when gently squeezed and feel soft near the stem end. Another ripeness indicator: the stem of a ripe avocado will come off easily and the flesh beneath will be a vibrant green. Avoid avocados with sagging skin, brownish spots, or dents.

Broccoli is high in many nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and potassium. It also boasts more protein than most other vegetables. Broccoli can be enjoyed both raw and cooked. Pick broccoli heads with hard, firm stems, tight florets, and no yellowing anywhere. The cut end of the stem should look fresh, not dry.

If you are not sure what seasonal produce is available, please ask one of our produce personnel, we would love to help you with all of your produce needs and answer any questions you might have!