Produce Briefs...
Italian Black Summer Truffles
Black summer truffles are more subtle than the winter variety. Shave truffle over cooked potatoes, toss with herbs and a shallot vinaigrette. Thinly shave truffle over scrambled eggs.
Spring Onions
Spring onions are most often utilized raw. The whole onion can be flash blanched and grilled, which brings out more the robust and sweet elements of the onions, and makes them a bolder pair for fish and meats
Seasons/Availability
Snapdragons are typically available in the spring and summer months.
Current Facts
Snapdragons are of the genus Antirrhinum and were originally part of the Scrophulariaceae or Figwort family. In the late 20th century many families were reorganized using new methods of classification known as phylogenetic taxonomy. Today, Snapdragons are a member of the Plantaginaceae family.
Description/Taste
Growing in almost every color except blue, Snapdragon flower buds consist of two stacked puffed petals that open from the bottom to the top. The petals are often times ruffled on their edges and have a soft texture. Flowers can be single or double hued in color and include pink, purple, lavender, white, yellow, orange and burgundy.
Applications
Snapdragon flowers are most commonly used for decorative purposes on cakes, tarts, pastries and other elegant dessert preparations. They can be used as colorful garnish alongside salads, frittatas, crepes, spring rolls and fruit plates or on specialty cocktails.
Geography/History
Although Snapdragons grew in ancient gardens, the actual origin of this age-old flower is uncertain but some believe it was the Mediterranean basin, more specifically in Spain and Italy. Its Latin species name, Antirrhinum majus, comes from the Greek for "nose-like". "Anti" in Greek means "like" and "rhinos" means "snout", a nod no doubt to the Snapdragon's nose like shape. This rather hardy annual thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil.
