Hey there, chefs! Ready to freshen up your summer menu with some of the most exciting produce around? We’ve got a lineup of in-season specialty produce items that are perfect for adding that wow factor to your dishes. From colorful squash blossoms to zesty finger limes, there’s something here to inspire everyone. Let’s check out what’s fresh and fabulous this season and explore some fun ways to use these special items in your kitchen.
Squash Blossoms (Kentucky) – (item #20614)
What Makes Them Special:
Squash blossoms are not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. These delicate flowers have a mild squash flavor and a unique, tender texture that can add a touch of elegance to any dish.
Menu Ideas:
Stuffed Squash Blossoms: Fill them with a mix of ricotta, herbs, and a hint of lemon zest, then lightly fry for a crispy appetizer.
Squash Blossom Tacos: Add them to your summer taco lineup with grilled corn, fresh avocado, and a tangy lime crema.
Squash Blossom Pizza: Top a thin crust pizza with mozzarella, squash blossoms, and a drizzle of pesto for a fresh summer twist.
Local Summer Zucchini Squash – (item #25609) & Local Summer Yellow Squash – (item #22666)
What Makes Them Special:
Both zucchini and yellow squash are staples of summer produce, known for their mild flavor and versatility. They can be used interchangeably or together to add color and variety.
Menu Ideas:
Grilled Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Simply marinate in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then grill until tender. Serve as a side dish or as part of a summer salad.
Zucchini Noodles: Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles and toss with a light tomato and basil sauce for a refreshing pasta alternative.
Summer Squash Ratatouille: Combine zucchini and yellow squash with tomatoes, eggplant, and bell peppers for a vibrant, hearty dish.
Lacinato Kale (Indiana) – (item #20558) & Green Curly Kale (Indiana) – (item #21144)
What Makes Them Special:
Kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green that’s incredibly versatile. Lacinato kale, also known as dinosaur kale, has a slightly sweeter and more tender texture compared to the curly variety, which is robust and hearty.
Menu Ideas:
Kale Caesar Salad: Use either variety to create a classic Caesar salad with a twist. The hearty leaves hold up well to creamy dressings.
Kale Chips: Toss with olive oil and sea salt, then bake until crispy for a healthy, crunchy snack.
Sautéed Kale: Sauté with garlic and chili flakes as a side dish or mix into grain bowls for added texture and nutrition.
Finger Limes (California) – (item #40500)
What Makes Them Special:
Often referred to as “citrus caviar,” finger limes are known for their tiny, pearl-like vesicles that burst with tart, lime flavor. They add a unique texture and bright acidity to dishes.
Menu Ideas:
Seafood Garnish: Use finger lime pearls to top oysters, ceviche, or grilled fish for a pop of flavor and visual appeal.
Finger Lime Vinaigrette: Incorporate the pearls into a vinaigrette for salads to add a citrusy kick.
Cocktail Ingredient: Enhance your summer cocktails by adding finger lime pearls for a surprising burst of flavor.
Yellow Watermelons (California) – (item #0282) & Mixed Heirloom Melons (California) – (item #30163)
What Makes Them Special:
Yellow watermelons and heirloom melons offer a sweet, refreshing flavor and beautiful color variety. They’re perfect for adding a sweet note to savory dishes or simply enjoying on their own.
Menu Ideas:
Melon Salad: Combine yellow watermelon and mixed heirloom melons with fresh mint, feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
Melon Gazpacho: Blend with cucumber, lime juice, and a hint of jalapeño for a chilled summer soup.
Melon Skewers: Pair with prosciutto and basil for an easy, elegant appetizer.
Purple Ninja Radishes – (item #18104)
What Makes Them Special:
Purple Ninja radishes are strikingly vibrant with a peppery flavor that adds a bold touch to any dish. Their crunch and color make them a favorite for garnishes and salads.
Menu Ideas:
Radish Carpaccio: Thinly slice and arrange on a plate with olive oil, sea salt, and lemon zest.
Pickled Radishes: Quick-pickle for a tangy addition to tacos, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards.
Radish Butter: Blend with butter and herbs to create a flavorful spread for bread or grilled meats.
Fresh Rhubarb – (item #19280)
What Makes It Special:
Rhubarb’s tartness makes it a unique addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Its vibrant red stalks are a sign of spring and early summer.
Menu Ideas:
Rhubarb Compote: Cook down with sugar and ginger to serve over desserts, yogurt, or pancakes.
Rhubarb BBQ Sauce: Create a tangy sauce to glaze meats or use as a dipping sauce.
Rhubarb Chutney: Pair with cheese and charcuterie for a sweet and sour flavor contrast.
Baby Bunch Turnips – (item #20541)
What Makes Them Special:
These small, tender turnips have a mild, slightly sweet flavor. They’re versatile enough to be used raw or cooked and bring a delicate taste to summer dishes.
Menu Ideas:
Roasted Turnips: Toss with olive oil and thyme, then roast until caramelized for a simple side dish.
Turnip Slaw: Shred and mix with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing slaw.
Turnip Puree: Blend cooked turnips with butter and cream for a silky-smooth puree to serve with roasted meats.
Pomegranates (Chile) – (item #10981)
What Makes Them Special:
Pomegranates add a burst of sweet-tart flavor and a vibrant red color to dishes. Their juicy seeds, or arils, are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways.
Menu Ideas:
Pomegranate Glaze: Reduce the juice to create a glaze for roasted meats or vegetables.
Salad Topping: Sprinkle the seeds over salads for a pop of color and flavor.
Pomegranate Salsa: Mix with diced avocado, onion, and cilantro for a fresh salsa to serve with fish or chicken.
Local Rutabaga – (item #26942)
What Makes Them Special:
Rutabagas are root vegetables with a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. They’re often overlooked but can add a unique taste and texture to dishes.
Menu Ideas:
Mashed Rutabaga: Combine with potatoes for a twist on the classic mashed side dish.
Rutabaga Fries: Cut into sticks, toss with olive oil and spices, then bake until crispy.
Rutabaga Gratin: Layer with cream and cheese for a hearty, comforting side.
Local Green Cabbage – (item #07899)
What Makes Them Special:
Green cabbage is a crunchy, versatile vegetable that can be used raw or cooked. Its mild flavor makes it a great base for a variety of dishes.
Menu Ideas:
Cabbage Slaw: Mix shredded cabbage with carrots, red onions, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing side.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: Fill leaves with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, then bake in a tomato sauce.
Sautéed Cabbage: Cook with bacon and onions for a simple, flavorful side dish.
Local Squash Delicata – (item #20623)
What Makes Them Special:
Delicata squash has a sweet, nutty flavor and a tender skin that’s edible, making it easy to prepare and enjoy.
Menu Ideas:
Roasted Delicata Squash: Slice into rings, toss with olive oil and spices, then roast until caramelized.
Squash Salad: Combine roasted delicata with arugula, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
Stuffed Delicata Squash: Fill with a mixture of quinoa, cranberries, and nuts for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Local Squash Spaghetti – (item #0990)
What Makes Them Special:
Spaghetti squash is a unique variety that, when cooked, can be shredded into spaghetti-like strands. It’s a great low-carb alternative to pasta.
Menu Ideas:
Spaghetti Squash Marinara: Top cooked strands with marinara sauce and parmesan for a light, healthy main dish.
Spaghetti Squash Stir-Fry: Toss with veggies and a soy-ginger sauce for a quick and flavorful meal.
Spaghetti Squash Casserole: Mix with cheese and herbs, then bake for a comforting, cheesy side dish.
Summer’s bounty is here, and with these specialty produce items, the possibilities for creating fresh, vibrant dishes are endless. Incorporate these ingredients into your menu to offer your customers the best of what the season has to offer. Happy cooking!
*All products may not be available in each region. Please check the app or reach out to your customer advocate for availability.