Purple fruits and vegetable are like works of art, yet shockingly abundant in the produce aisle. For our exploration through the colors of the fruit and vegetable rainbow [1], we were able to track down a bright-purple head of cabbage, a box of blueberries, an elegant, long-necked Japanese eggplant, and a peak-season bunch of Spring onions. Looking for ways to enjoy these purple produce items? Then keep reading.
Purple Cabbage
Purple cabbage can be shredded [2], tossed with your favorite vinaigrette, and enjoyed as a side salad [3]. Or you can opt for a more traditional preparation and make a batch of classic sauerkraut [4]. Purple cabbage also adds a layer of flavor and crunch to pulled pork sandwiches [5] and fish tacos [6]. Try it braised [7] or even in a crunchy slaw [8].
Blueberries
While I prefer to carry around a carton of blueberries [9] in my purse for easy snacking, one can't help but get excited about all of the recipes that involve these dark purple-colored berries. Dutch babies [10] are a unique twist on a brunch classic. This blueberry margarita [11] is fun and flirty. A perfect Summer blueberry cobbler [12] sounds delicious all year long. But for a wild way to highlight this sweet berry, blueberry marshmallows [13] are the way to go.
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Japanese Eggplant
Japanese eggplant is narrower in size and more delicate in flavor than a regular eggplant, but you can use either for any of these recipes. Eggplant can be a polarizing ingredient, but not when it's roasted and tossed into a salad [14]. A slice of roasted eggplant adds a meaty, satisfying component to this vegetarian sandwich [15]. Have you ever tried eggplant and eggs [16]? If these all seem too fussy, you can't go wrong with cod and asparagus [17], they bring a delicate onion flavor that doesn't outshine any of the other ingredients. They can also be cooked down into a jam [18] and enjoyed with goat cheese on toasts. And don't throw away those green tops! Toss them into your pot of homemade chicken stock [19] for added flavor.
What's your favorite pick of purple produce?