5 TIPS for
CALIFORNIA CUISINE
Avocados
An avocado is ripe when it gives slightly when squeezed with your fingers. When avocados are not quite ripe, place them with a banana in a paper bag in a warm place for a couple days. They should be ready to eat and if not, let them sit longer.
Artichokes
Most of us are unfamiliar with fresh artichokes but here’s a few tips on how to choose the freshest ones: pick small tightly closed heads with green leaves. Avoid artichokes with brown leaves or any indications of mold. Larger heads with separated leaves are too old and will prove to be tough and bitter…I’m sure you don’t want that!
Cantaloupes
Cantaloupe is an amazing flavorful fruit but more than often we don’t know to choose the right one; Look for a light sweet fragrance but not an overpowering smell which indicates that the fruit is overripe. Look for a cantaloupe with an even yellow colored netting with very little or no green. Also it should be firm but not rock hard.
founder/designer/chief editor - Steven Vitali
February/March/April/May 2016