Fruits and Vegetables for Winter Time Nutrition

Fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients you need to promote heart health, such as vitami C, potassium, magnesium, folate, fiber, and even calcium. However, winter can often make eating vegetables daily more difficult. Here are several great choices you can access easily during the winter months. Artichokes Select artichokes heavy for their size with tightly closed buds. Leaf color should be green or purple without wilting or drying. Store artichokes by trimming the step and placing stem-down in water. Will keep in refrigerator for 2-3 days. Broccoli Should have a firm texture and dark green color with closed buds. Store for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Brussels Sprouts Select sprouts that are small with tight-fitting leaves. There should be no brown or yellow coloring. Store 7-10 days in refrigerator. Cauliflower Select firm, tight heads cream in color without brown spots. Store for up to 1 week in refrigerator. Snow Peas Choose peas with a bright green color that are firm in texture not rubbery. Store in refrigerator for 2-3 days. Winter Squash Squash should feel heavy for its size with thick, hard skin. Store up to a month in a cool, dry place. Sweet Potatoes Choose firm potatoes of a medium size without blemishes. Store 2-3 weeks in a cool, dry, dark place. Cranberries Select shiny cranberries, not shriveled. Color should be brown or a deep red. Store in refrigerator for up to two weeks. Wash in cold water. Grapefruit Select fruit heavy for its size with firm/thin skin. Store at room temperature for 10 days or in refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Kiwi Choose a kiwi that gives a little with pressure, but should not have soft spots. Store at room temperature for 3-5 days or refrigerate in a plastic bag for 2-3 weeks. Pears Like kiwi, pears should give to slight pressure. Store at room temperature to fully ripen/soften. Refrigerate for 1-2 days. Pomegranates Choose fruit that is plump and heavy for its size. The top should feel soft when pressed. Skin of fruit should be shiny and not dull or dry. Refrigerate up to 2 weeks.