From April through December, Delaware produces a bountiful amount of fresh fruits and vegetables, honey, cut flowers, and evergreens. Our seasonality offers distinct flavors, colors, and variety that appeal to all. As a consumer, you want the best for yourself and your family. Knowing that the fresh produce you purchased has had the minimum amount of time “off the vine” is essential. In a small state like Delaware, our farmers pick early in the morning, so you have the freshest selection at the market. And with less time to reach the market, nutrients are retained, making Delaware grown produce more nutritious. Our Fresh Market Availability Chart is a great reference to check before heading to the market.

Don’t be intimated; leeks are a wonderful alternative to onions and easier to clean and cut than you think. Follow these five steps for the perfect leek experience.

• Chop off the base (roots)
• Chop off the flag (green leaves)
• Cut the remaining leek in half lengthwise
• Cut half-moon sections
• Place in a bowl of water to remove dirt

Leeks tend to have dirt in them, so don’t skip the last step.

• Cauliflower Soup

• Asparagus Soup

• Carrot and Bow Tie Soup

• Lima Bean Soup

Cooking with your child can educate and empower them to make healthy choices with fresh local ingredients. We have a few tips to keep cooking with children low stress and safe:

1. Bring out a step stool. Help them get involved with a safe full view of the kitchen counter.

2. Dress for a mess. It’s time to get your hands dirty, and there is no need to stress over the clothing.

3. Follow a recipe. Using a recipe helps children go step by step and learn how to measure ingredients out. We have many kid-friendly recipes to try out, https://delawaregrown.com/local-recipes/

4. Taste test. Taste-testing makes it more fun, and children are more likely to try healthy foods when they are the ones making them.