Lemon
How to select for best flavor: Select firm, glossy fruit that seems heavy for its size. A slight greenish cast to the skin is desirable because it means...
Leaf Lettuce
How to select for best flavor: As with other lettuce, smelling the butt end is the best way to choose lettuce. It should smell sweet, not bitter. A...
Ginger Root
How to select for best flavor: Select clean-looking, shiny, light-brown roots. Avoid roots that have soft spots or that show spots of blue-green mold. Peak of the season:...
Cilantro
How to select for best flavor: Select dark-green, fresh-looking bunches. Avoid wilting or yellowing bunching. Peak of the season: Cilantro, like most herbs, is available year round at...
Chive
How to select for best flavor: Choose chives that are bright-green and fresh-looking. They should have a sharp oniony smell. Peak of the season: Chives are available all...
Chicory, Endive, Escarole
Chicory Shown How to select for best flavor: These greens are very perishable. They should be displayed in cold cases at the market and kept wet. The bunches should...
Cauliflower
How to select for best flavor: Choose firm, compact heads that are white to cream-colored. Any leaves that are attached should be dark green and fresh-looking. Sometimes you will...
Cabbage
How to select for best flavor: Choose firm heads that feel heavy for their size. The color, weather green, red or purple, should be bright. Avoid heads with wilted...
Broccoli
How to select for best flavor: The best way to tell fresh broccoli is by smell. The scent should be very delicate and subtle. If it is strong, the...
Banana
How to select for best flavor: How you choose a banana depends on the type of banana you are buying. Yellow bananas — the skins should be solid...