Bye-bye, holidays! When the festive lights go dark and evergreens draped with tinsel line the streets like dead soldiers, we find the steely eyes of winter staring us in the face. Brrrrrr. But we can find some light in winter's produce, like a good squeeze of grapefruit in a cocktail that's arguably better than a margarita, or that healthy surge you feel after downing a kale salad. Check out what's in season in January, along with some great recipe ideas, and remember: It's always darkest before the dawn.
GRAPEFRUIT
Look for firm, heavy grapefruit with smooth, thin skin. You can store it at room temperature for a week, or up to three in the refrigerator.
LEEKS
Choose smaller leeks that have a long, straight, white and light-green stalk, with bright green tops. Stalks should be firm and free of any cracks or bruises. Cut off the green tops and store in the refrigerator for up to five days. And don't forget to clean them thoroughly before using!
(Credit: Romulo Yanes)
(Credit: Misha Gravenor)
(Credit: Lisa Hubbard)
PARSNIPS
Find smallish, firm parsnips with smooth cream-colored skin. Store in the refrigerator, unwashed, for up to a month.
(Credit: Maria del Mar Sacasa/Ennis, Inc.)
(Credit: Tina Rupp)
(Credit: Romulo Yanes)
KALE
Look for kale that's dark green with ruffly, crisp leaves. Store in the chilliest part of the refrigerator, unwashed, for 3 days.
(Credit: Ditte Isager)
(Credit: Romulo Yanes)
(Credit: Michael Graydon + Nikole Herriott)
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