Stuffed Eggplant

Recipe courtesy of https://allrecipes.com

Ingredients for Stuffed Eggplant:

  • 1 (1½ pound) eggplant, halved lengthwise
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1 cup tomato-basil pasta sauce
  • 3/4 cup Italian seasoned panko bread crumbs, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

 

Instructions

  1. Gather ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil.
  2. Cut around the edge of the flesh in each eggplant half using a sharp paring knife, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Scoop out flesh using a spoon, leaving 1/2-inch-thick shell; reserve flesh and chop into bite-size pieces.
  3. Brush shells with 2 tablespoons olive oil and season with salt and pepper; set aside.
  4. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium high heat. Add sausage, onion, mushrooms, and garlic; cook and stir until sausage is evenly brown. Stir in reserved chopped eggplant and basil. Add pasta sauce; cook and stir for 5 minutes. Mix in 1/2 cup of panko and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
  5. Stuff mixture into eggplant shells. Combine remaining panko and cheese in a small bowl; sprinkle over stuffing.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven until eggplant is tender, 45 to 50 minutes.

The Rise of Plant-Based Eating: Produce that Powers the Trend

From bustling restaurant kitchens to neighborhood grocery stores, plant-based eating is no longer a passing trend—it’s a full-blown movement. As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, the demand for fresh fruits and vegetables has surged. At E. Armata Inc., we’re proud to be among the leading produce companies in new york supporting this shift by supplying the highest quality produce to fuel plant-based menus everywhere.

Why Plant-Based Is on the Rise

Plant-based eating goes beyond veganism. Today’s consumers are embracing meals centered around vegetables, legumes, fruits, and grains—not only for health but also for flavor and sustainability. Produce is taking center stage on plates across New York and beyond, whether it’s oat milk lattes, cauliflower steaks, or jackfruit tacos.

For chefs, retailers, and food service professionals, sourcing dependable, fresh produce is more important than ever. That’s where top produce companies in new york, like E. Armata, make the difference.

Key Produce Driving the Trend

  1. Leafy Greens – Kale, spinach, arugula, and romaine are now menu staples from smoothies to power bowls.
  2. Cruciferous Veggies – Cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts transformed into rice, crusts, and savory entrees.
  3. Avocados & Sweet Potatoes – These nutrient-rich options are plant-based powerhouses.
  4. Mushrooms – As a hearty meat alternative, mushrooms (especially oysters and portobello) are gaining traction in vegan and flexitarian dishes.

We work closely with farms and suppliers to ensure all these items—and many more—are available at peak freshness. As one of the most trusted produce companies in new york, E. Armata delivers flavorful and functional produce.

Plant-Based Menus Start with Smart Sourcing

Armata understands that successful plant-based menus begin with sourcing ingredients that are consistently fresh, competitively priced, and safely handled. With decades of experience in wholesale distribution and deep roots at the Hunts Point Terminal Market, we provide tailored service to restaurants, meal kit providers, institutions, and grocers alike.

In a crowded field of produce companies in new york, our family-owned operation stands out for its commitment to quality and client partnerships.

Ready to Power Your Plant-Based Program?

As more consumers shift toward plant-forward diets, now is the time to align your business with a distributor that understands the movement and can meet your sourcing needs. E. Armata is here to help you bring vibrant, high-quality produce to your shelves, kitchens, and menus.

Partner with one of the top produce companies in new york—contact E. Armata Inc. today.

Tomato Time: Heirloom, Cherry, and Roma Varieties at Their Peak

There’s no better time to celebrate the vibrant, flavor-packed tomato varieties that define summer’s peak. At E. Armata Inc., your trusted source for wholesale produce nyc, we’re proud to offer the finest selection of heirloom, cherry, and Roma tomatoes—each handpicked for freshness, flavor, and consistency.

Heirloom Tomatoes: Flavor That Tells a Story

Heirloom tomatoes are known for their bold colors, irregular shapes, and complex, nuanced flavor. Grown from heritage seeds passed down through generations, these tomatoes offer a rich, almost nostalgic taste that chefs and consumers love. Whether sliced for sandwiches or featured in Caprese salads, heirlooms bring beauty and taste to the plate.

Our relationships with local farms and select growers allow us to source the best heirlooms at their peak—another reason E. Armata is a preferred name in wholesale produce nyc.

Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, Juicy, and Versatile

Bursting with natural sweetness and vibrant color, cherry tomatoes are a staple for restaurants, retailers, and food service providers. Perfect for roasting, skewering, or tossing into salads, their versatility makes them a go-to item during the summer rush.

We supply cherry tomato varieties in multiple pack sizes, ensuring your business can meet customer demand without sacrificing quality. As a leading wholesale produce nyc distributor, we prioritize freshness from the farm to your door.

Roma Tomatoes: The Chef’s Choice for Sauce & More

Known for their dense flesh and low moisture content, Roma tomatoes are the secret behind rich sauces, salsas, and stews. These plum-style tomatoes are prized for their cooking potential and long shelf life, making them an essential ingredient for commercial kitchens and markets.

At E. Armata, we offer Romas that are ripened on the vine and packed under strict quality control—another reason food professionals choose us for wholesale produce nyc.

Why Choose E. Armata Inc.?

Located in the heart of the Hunts Point Produce Market, E. Armata has been a trusted family-owned supplier for generations. With a commitment to quality, service, and year-round availability, we help restaurants, institutions, and retailers thrive.

Whether you’re seeking specialty tomatoes or a complete line of fruits and vegetables, our team delivers with precision and care. Tomato season is here—ensure your shelves and menus reflect the best.

Contact us today to learn more or place your next wholesale order.

Cherries Are a July Favorite—But Only for a Short Time

Summer is cherry season, and July is the sweet spot. For a few short weeks, markets overflowed with glossy, crimson beauties that deliver unmatched flavor, color, and consumer appeal. But cherries don’t stick around for long. Their season is fleeting, making them one of the most sought-after specialty fruits of the year.

At E. Armata, we understand the urgency and excitement of cherry season. As one of the most trusted produce distributors in queens ny, businesses rely on us; we’re here to help you make the most of this short-lived harvest.

Why Cherries Are So Popular in July

July marks the peak of cherry availability across the United States. Sourced primarily from growers in California, Washington, and Oregon, these seasonal favorites thrive in early-to-mid summer conditions. Their sweet, tart flavor and striking appearance make them a must-have for:

  • Retailers looking to drive impulse buys with high-margin items
  • Restaurants and bakeries creating seasonal desserts and cocktails
  • Health-conscious consumers seeking antioxidant-rich snacks

However, cherries have a short shelf life and an even shorter harvest window than apples or bananas. That’s why when working with experienced produce distributors queens ny, food businesses can count on freshness, consistency, and timing.

Types of Cherries in Season

This time of year, you’ll likely see two primary cherry types available:

  • Dark Sweet Cherries – Varieties like Bing or Chelan are juicy, plump, and ideal for eating fresh or adding to summer dishes.
  • Rainier Cherries – These yellow-red beauties are sweeter, more delicate, and often considered a premium offering.

Each variety offers something special, and both are excellent for boosting produce sales or enhancing seasonal menus. E. Armata works closely with growers to bring in the best of both, making us a go-to among produce distributors queens ny, retailers, and chefs who choose for quality.

Handling & Storage Tips

Because cherries are delicate and highly perishable, proper handling is key. Here are a few tips to preserve freshness:

  • Keep refrigerated as soon as they arrive
  • Do not wash until ready to eat to prevent early spoilage
  • Rotate stock frequently to reduce bruising and waste

We take extra steps in our cold chain logistics to ensure cherries are kept at optimal temperatures from farm to client. We’re considered one of the most reliable produce distributors queens ny that businesses trust during summer’s busiest months.

Make the Most of the Season

With the Fourth of July, summer markets, and BBQ season in full swing, now is the time to stock up. Highlight cherries in your displays, create special promotions or feature them in limited-time menu items.

And remember: cherry season comes and goes in a flash. By August, availability drops off sharply—so don’t wait.

Contact E. Armata

As a family-owned business with decades of experience, E. Armata is proud to serve the needs of grocers, food service providers, and distributors throughout New York and beyond. Our commitment to freshness, reliability, and personal service makes us stand out among produce distributors queens ny. Contact us today to place your cherry order or learn more about what’s in season this week.

What’s in Season in July? Spotlight on Summer Fruits and Vegetables

July is the peak summer produce season, and there’s no better time to enjoy the bold colors, juicy flavors, and unmatched freshness of local and regional fruits and vegetables. Whether you’re a grocer, restaurant, juice bar, or food service operator, understanding what’s in season helps you source smarter and sell better. As a fresh fruit supplier near NYC, E. Armata is proud to deliver a plentiful summer harvest from our family to yours. Here’s a closer look at what’s thriving this July and how you can make the most of it.

Stone Fruits Take Center Stage

July is the heart of stone fruit season, and the variety and quality available right now are unbeatable. You’ll find:

  • Peaches – Juicy, fragrant, and perfect for desserts or grilling
  • Nectarines – Smooth-skinned and flavorful
  • Plums & Apricots – Tart, sweet, and ideal for baking or fresh snacking
  • Cherries – Short-season favorites that drive premium sales

These fruits don’t just taste amazing — they look great on store displays and chef’s plates alike. As a fresh fruit supplier near NYC, we ensure your stone fruits are delivered at peak ripeness and handled carefully to preserve their delicate textures.

Berries, Berries, Berries

From smoothies and parfaits to pies and jams, berries are July’s MVPs. Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are all abundant and in demand this time of year. Their bright colors and sweet-tart flavors make them a hit across every food industry segment.

At E. Armata, your go-to fresh fruit supplier near NYC, we work with trusted farms to provide consistent, high-quality berry deliveries for your summer menus and store shelves.

Summer Vegetables in Their Prime

Don’t forget the vegetables! July is a great time to stock up on:

  • Sweet Corn – A must-have for Fourth of July and BBQ menus
  • Zucchini & Yellow Squash – Grill-ready and low-waste
  • Tomatoes – Vine-ripened heirlooms, cherries, and beefsteaks
  • Bell Peppers & Eggplant – Bright, bold, and built for summer dishes

These summer staples are versatile and visually appealing, ideal for retail bins or restaurant specials. Many of them are grown in the Northeast, reducing travel time and maximizing freshness.

Melons & Tropicals

Few things say “summer,” like a cold slice of watermelon. July is prime time for:

  • Watermelons – Seeded, seedless, mini, and more
  • Cantaloupes & Honeydews – Naturally hydrating and sweet
  • Pineapples & Mangos – Add tropical flair to dishes and displays
  1. Armata is proud to be a reliable fresh fruit supplier near NYC, with a wide array of summer fruits that meet the needs of high-volume buyers and boutique markets.

Why Seasonal Sourcing Matters

Buying in-season produce offers multiple benefits:

  • Better flavor and quality
  • Lower prices due to abundant supply
  • Reduced carbon footprint with regional sourcing
  • Increased customer satisfaction

Partnering with a trusted fresh fruit supplier near NYC like E. Armata means you get consistent quality, real-time availability updates, and access to a diverse summer inventory curated for businesses across the Tri-State area.

Contact Us

If you’re looking to stock your produce section or menu with vibrant, flavorful items this summer, July is the time to act. From stone fruits and berries to corn and melons, the options are fresh, local, and in demand. Contact E. Armata today to place your seasonal order, or visit us at the Bronx Terminal Market to explore what’s new this week.

Sweet Potato Oranges

Recipe courtesy of https://allrecipes.com

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Oranges:

  • 6 medium oranges
  • 3 cups cooked, mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup orange juice
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • ½ teaspoon all-purpose flour

 

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. Cut 1/2 inch off one end of each orange and spoon out flesh. Place orange shells into a deep casserole dish.
  3. Mix sweet potatoes, white sugar, 1/2 cup softened butter, orange juice, eggs, vanilla, and orange zest in a large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Spoon into orange shells.
  4. Combine remaining 1/2 cup butter, brown sugar, pecans, and flour in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and butter melts, 3 to 4 minutes; spoon mixture over oranges. Add 1/2 inch water around orange shells in the casserole dish.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.