The common misconception about winter produce is that it doesn't exist. False! In fact, some of the most interesting produce pops up when the leaves fall off the trees. In December, you'll start to see pomegranate-jeweled desserts, sweet persimmon breads, luscious caramelized shallots, and vibrant citrus salads. If that ain't some gorgeous produce, we're not sure what is.
Pick pomegranates that feel heavy for their size, with dark red, taut skin. Ditch any fruit with cracks or bruises.
(Credit: Misha Gravenor)
(Credit: Gabriella Imperatori-Penn)
*Look for firm, small-to-medium sweet potatoes, which tend to be less starchy than the larger ones. *** The skin should be oranged-toned and smooth with no cracks or bruises.
(Credit: Lisa Hubbard)
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(Credit: Jeremy Liebman)
Shallots should be firm and heavy for their size, with no bruises or green sprouts (which means they're old).
](http://weightloss-tricks.today/recipe/caramelized-onion-and-shallot-dip%29%3Cbr/%3E%3Cem%3E%28Credit: Romulo Yanes)
(Credit: Lisa Hubbard)
(Credit: Jeremy Liebman)
With oranges, you're not looking for perfectly orange skin--fruit with green or brown spots may be perfectly ripe. Firm, heavy fruit with smooth-textured skin, however, is good to look for.
](http://weightloss-tricks.today/recipe/marinated-radicchio-salad-with-orange-and-walnuts%29%3Cbr/%3E%3Cem%3E%28Credit: Maria del Mar Sacasa / Ennis, Inc.)
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Choose persimmons that are bright in color, with smooth, glossy skin and green leaves on the top intact. If you're planning on eating the persimmon immediately, buy a ripe one; otherwise, get a firmer fruit and let it ripen over time.
(Credit: Kana Okada)
(Credit: Ray Kachatorian)
(Credit: Lisa Hubbard)