The artichoke is an inflorescence vegetable with a spherical or cylindrical shape, measuring 7–13 cm in diameter. It is composed of overlapping green or purple leaves, depending on the variety, enclosing a tender and juicy heart. Notable commercial varieties include ‘Blanca de Tudela’, prized for its rounded, compact shape and exceptional tenderness, and the Violet variety, of Breton origin, popular at the end of the national production season. Artichokes are available year-round, with peak production in late autumn and early spring.
Asparagus is a slender, spear-shaped vegetable with a woody base and tender tip, ranging from 10 to 20 cm in length. The most common variety is green asparagus, though white and purple varieties are also cultivated. Its color depends on how it is grown—green is grown in sunlight, while white is harvested before exposure to light.
Basil is a fragrant aromatic herb characterized by its soft, oval-shaped leaves and vibrant bright green color. The leaves are smooth, tender, and slightly glossy, growing in opposite pairs along delicate stems. Depending on the variety, basil can vary in size, aroma, and leaf shape. Fresh basil is widely available throughout the year.
Broad beans, also known as fava beans, are large, flat, oval-shaped seeds contained in long, thick green pods. The beans are pale green when fresh, enclosed in a soft inner membrane. They can be eaten both fresh and dried. The plant itself grows upright, with sturdy stems and broad leaves.
Broccoli is a green cruciferous vegetable characterized by its thick edible stalk and a compact, flowering head made up of numerous tightly clustered green florets. The head resembles a miniature tree. Its leaves are also edible and have a slightly tougher texture. The most common variety is the green type, though there are also purple cultivars.
Nutritional & Health Benefits: Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, as well as sugars, proteins, and minerals, making it a nutritious and wholesome vegetable.
Culinary Uses: Cabbage can be cooked, steamed, boiled, or used in stews and soups. It pairs well with other vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and beans and can also be enjoyed in salads or fermented as sauerkraut.
Storage: To maintain freshness, cabbage should be kept in the refrigerator.
The carrot is one of the most frequently consumed vegetables, enjoyed both raw and cooked. It is an elongated root, semi-thick and conical in shape, with its bright orange color extending from the skin to the flesh. From its base grow thin, long stems that support delicate green leaves. There are numerous varieties, ranging from mini-carrots to larger bunches, and they are available all year round.
Cauliflower has a compact, circular head formed by tightly clustered florets, typically white or sometimes yellowish, wrapped in green leaves with prominent veins. The diameter of the head is usually around 20 cm. There is also a green-flowered variety available.
Celeriac is a large, spherical, bulbous root with a diameter of approximately 4–8 inches. Unlike celery, the edible part grows underground. Its outer skin is brownish, while the interior flesh is lighter in color. Celeriac is available year-round, with the best quality typically in autumn and winter.
Celery is a well-known and popular vegetable from the Umbelliferae family. It develops fleshy, crunchy stalks with leafy tops. Traditional soil-bleaching methods are no longer used, as modern dense cultivation techniques naturally produce pale stalks. Current market varieties include turnip celery and cut celery.
Swiss chard is a vivid and refreshing leafy vegetable. It features a thick, white central rib surrounded by fleshy stems, from which large, deep green leaves emerge. Common varieties include Blonde (white stalk), Green Common, Lucullus, and Yellow Lyon. Swiss chard is available year-round.
Chicory (Belgian endive) is a compact, elongated bud made up of tightly layered leaves that range from pale white to soft yellow. Grown entirely away from light, its leaves stay tender, smooth, and delicately crisp. Measuring between 9 and 17 cm, each bud has a clean, elegant look, making it a premium ingredient for fresh dishes and gourmet presentations.
