Basil pesto

Basil Pesto

Recipe courtesy of natashaskitchen.com

Ingredients 

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, tightly packed*
  • 3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts (Optional)*
  • 2 garlic cloves, (large)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (juice of 2 small lemons)
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions

  1. Wash and dry the basil leaves – you can use a salad spinner to make this step easier.
  2. Place basil into a food processor. Add parmesan cheese, nuts, garlic cloves, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
  3. Season with more salt to taste if desired
Hunts Point Produce Market

Gut Health and Spring Produce: How Fresh Fruits and Veggies Support Digestive Wellness

Gut health is a cornerstone of holistic well-being. The gut plays a pivotal role in our overall health and vitality. It’s a complex ecosystem comprising trillions of microbes that interact profoundly with our bodies. The gut exerts a far-reaching influence from digestion to immune function and even mental health. At E. Armata Inc., located at the Hunts Point Produce Market, we have a vast selection of fresh seasonal produce for wholesale purchase. Continue reading below to learn more about gut health and seasonal produce.  

Nourishing the Gut with Fresh Spring Produce

Spring heralds the arrival of an array of vibrant fruits and vegetables at the Hunts Point Produce Market bursting with flavor and nutrients. From crisp asparagus and tender leafy greens to succulent berries and zesty citrus fruits, the season offers many choices to tantalize our taste buds and nourish our bodies.

Fiber: A Key Player in Digestive Health

Fiber is central to the digestive process and is an abundant, indigestible carbohydrate in plant-based foods. Consuming ample fiber-rich fruits and vegetables promotes regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome. Moreover, fiber serves as a prebiotic, fueling the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Enzymes and Phytonutrients: Enhancing Digestive Function

In addition to fiber, fresh produce provides an array of enzymes and phytonutrients that aid digestion and promote optimal gut function. Enzymes such as amylase in fruits like pineapple and papaya help break down carbohydrates. At the same time, phytonutrients like flavonoids and polyphenols possess anti-inflammatory properties, soothing the digestive tract and reducing the risk of gastrointestinal disorders.

Harnessing the Power of Probiotics

Complementing the benefits of fresh produce are probiotics, live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. Probiotics, commonly found in fermented foods, help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, bolstering digestive resilience and fortifying the immune system.

Synergistic Effects: Prebiotics and Probiotics

When prebiotics from fiber-rich fruits and vegetables combine with probiotics from fermented foods, they create a synergistic effect that optimizes gut health. Prebiotics nourish probiotics, fostering their growth and enhancing their beneficial effects on digestion and immune function.

Lifestyle Factors and Digestive Wellness

Beyond dietary considerations, stress exerts a profound impact on digestive wellness. Chronic stress can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort and inflammation. Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and regular exercise can promote a harmonious relationship between the mind and the gut.

Adequate Hydration: Supporting Digestive Function

Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal digestive function. Water helps soften stool, making it easier to pass, and facilitates food movement through the digestive tract. Alongside consuming fresh produce, prioritizing adequate hydration ensures smooth and efficient digestion.

Contact E. Armata at the Hunts Point Produce Market

In conclusion, the relationship between gut health and spring produce is undeniable. By incorporating an abundance of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables into our diets, harnessing the power of probiotics, and attending to lifestyle factors such as stress management and hydration, we can nurture our gut microbiome and cultivate digestive wellness. Contact E. Armata Inc. to learn more about our selection at the Hunts Point Produce Market. 

Produce distributors Queens NY

How Can Cantaloupe Help Lower Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition affecting millions worldwide. While medication can help control blood pressure, lifestyle changes such as exercise and a healthy diet can also effectively reduce blood pressure. One food that has been shown to help lower blood pressure is cantaloupe. Our produce distributors Queens NY at E. Armata Inc. would like to explore the benefits of cantaloupe for blood pressure and how it can be incorporated into a healthy diet. Continue reading to learn more! 

 

Cantaloupe and Blood Pressure

Cantaloupe is a delicious and nutritious fruit high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is also low in calories and a great source of hydration. But what makes cantaloupe particularly beneficial for those with high blood pressure is its high potassium content. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure. It helps balance the effects of sodium, a mineral that can cause excess blood pressure to rise when consumed in excess.

Studies have shown that increasing potassium intake can help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. One medium-sized cantaloupe from our produce distributors Queens NY contains approximately 473 milligrams of potassium, making it an excellent source of this essential mineral.

 

Other Benefits of Cantaloupe

In addition to its blood pressure-lowering properties, cantaloupe has several other health benefits. For example, it is high in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promote healthy skin. Cantaloupe is also rich in vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and vision. Additionally, cantaloupe contains fiber, which can aid in digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels.

 

How to Incorporate Cantaloupe into Your Diet

If you’re looking to incorporate cantaloupe into your diet, there are several ways to do so. Here are a few ideas:

  • Enjoy it as a snack: Cut up some cantaloupe into bite-sized pieces and enjoy it as a healthy snack between meals.
  • Add it to your breakfast: Top your oatmeal or yogurt with some cantaloupe for a tasty and nutritious breakfast.
  • Make a salad: Combine cantaloupe with other fruits and veggies for a refreshing and nutritious salad.
  • Blend it into a smoothie: Add some cantaloupe to your favorite smoothie recipe for a healthy and delicious drink.

 

Contact Us: Produce Distributors Queens NY

Cantaloupe is a tasty and nutritious fruit that can help lower blood pressure and promote overall health. By incorporating cantaloupe into your diet in creative ways, you can reap the benefits of this tasty fruit and improve your health. To learn more about our melon department, contact our produce distributors Queens NY at E. Armata Inc. today! 

Pasta Primavera 012

Pasta Primavera

Recipe courtesy of acouplecooks.com

Ingredients 

  • 8 ounces pasta (casarecce is shown)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 bunch (1 pound) asparagus, tough ends removed, sliced in half and cut into small pieces
  • 1 leek, thinly sliced into half moons and washed (or 1 large shallot, thinly sliced)
  • 1 bunch broccolini (or 1 crown broccoli), cut into small pieces
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed under warm water
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1 ½ tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 small garlic cloves, grated
  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups 2% milk
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more to garnish

Directions

  1. Bring a salted pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta to al dente (taste testing a minute or two before the package instructions indicate). Drain and toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil.
  2. Meanwhile, prep the vegetables as noted above. In a dutch oven or large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Cook mushrooms for 4 minutes, until starting to brown. Add asparagus, leeks, broccolini, carrots and ½ teaspoon kosher salt and cook additional 4 to 5 minutes until asparagus is tender and bright green. Add peas and continue cooking until peas are bright green, about 1 minute.
  3. In a small or medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the grated garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to 90 seconds, until bubbly and golden. Add a splash of milk and whisk it in: the sauce will instantly turn chunky. Constantly whisking, continue to add splashes of milk and whisk them in until the entire quantity is incorporated and the sauce is smooth. Reduce the heat and whisk until the sauce thickens and no longer tastes like raw flour, about 5 minutes. Add ½ teaspoon kosher salt and the Parmesan cheese.
  4. Drain the pasta, then add it to the skillet with the veggies and stir in the sauce. Taste and add the additional ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese. Leftovers store well refrigerated.
Wholesale produce distributors NJ

What Are Some Of The Most Popular Vegetables In Middle Eastern Cooking?

Like the culture, the cuisine of the Middle East is rich and based on history, tradition, and passion. Middle Eastern food comes from the diverse cuisines of several countries in the Middle East and Asia. Many Middle Eastern dishes include spices and vegetables. Our wholesale produce distributors NJ at E. Armata Inc. offer an extensive selection of high-quality vegetables perfect for Middle Eastern cooking! Continue reading to discover the most popular vegetables used with this cooking style! 

 

What Are Some Of The Most Popular Vegetables In Middle Eastern Cooking?

Middle Eastern culinary traditions are heavily influenced by the Mediterranean climate, religions, and Asia, Africa, and Europe through trade routes that have been used for centuries. While this cooking style varies across cultures and countries, similar ingredients and vegetables are used in abundance. Here are some of the most popular vegetables and herbs available from our wholesale produce distributors NJ used in Middle Eastern cooking:

  • Spinach
  • Parsley
  • Mint
  • Cabbage
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Squash
  • Eggplant 
  • Okra
  • Tomato
  • Carrots
  • Chard

 

Popular Recipes 

Here are some of the most popular Middle Eastern dishes that have reached plates across the globe:

  • Hummus – Hummus is an iconic dish that many adore. Hummus is a dip made from chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil. You can enjoy hummus with pita bread or use it as a sandwich spread. Tahini is a critical ingredient in several Middle Eastern dishes that is made from sesame paste. 
  • Baba Ganoush – Baba ganoush is a vegetarian dip made from roasted eggplants and tahini. Serve this dish with pita bread or your favorite stewed or roasted vegetables. 
  • Falafel – Falafel is a staple in the Middle East. This dish is made of chickpeas, onions, and spices. Falafel can be enjoyed as an appetizer, but this protein-rich meal makes for a tasty sandwich when put inside pita bread. 

Contact Us

Middle Eastern cooking is all about combining local ingredients with spices and herbs to create flavorful and satiating dishes. Our wholesale produce distributors NJ at E. Armata Inc. offer a wide selection of delicious and fresh fruits and vegetables that complement any cuisine. Be sure to contact us today to learn more about our operation and selection! 

E. Armata stocks eastern vegetables wholesale — eggplant, okra, squash, and more — for Middle Eastern and Mediterranean kitchens.

Hunts Point Market

Popular Vegetables Available At The Hunts Point Market

With so many different options available at the Hunts Point Market, you may be wondering about trying or cooking a new vegetable. However, there are plenty of staple vegetables you can add to your shopping list! Our team at E. Armata Inc. would like to share some of the most popular vegetables available at our facility, so continue reading to discover more! 

Popular Vegetables at the Hunts Point Market 

People tend to have a tricky relationship with vegetables and struggle to incorporate them into their diet. Fortunately, you don’t have to be very adventurous with your selections in order to experience the benefits of vegetables. Discover some of the most popular vegetables at the Hunts Point Market below:

  • Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes are always a popular vegetable, especially around the holiday season. This root vegetable has high beta-carotene levels and a host of vitamins and minerals that can boost your immunity while livening up your side dishes. 
  • Asparagus – Asparagus is another popular vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals. This vegetable is easy to add to your weekly menu. Cut off the tough lower part of the stalk and saute for an easy weeknight side dish! 
  • Broccoli – Broccoli is one of the most popular vegetables available at the Hunts Point Market. This vegetable contains vitamins and minerals and can be a great snack or delicious addition to a hearty and irresistible soup. 
  • Carrots – Carrots are highly-coveted vegetables that can be used for just about anything. You can dip them into your favorite spread or roast them for a warm and comforting side dish! 
  • Spinach – Spinach is a delicate leafy green that packs a powerful punch. It has numerous health benefits and can be a great salad base. You can also saute spinach in garlic and oil for a delicious and healthy side. 

Contact Us

Finding the right fruits and vegetables is easy when you visit E. Armata Inc. at the Hunts Point Market! We have a vast selection of vegetables for our customers to choose from. To learn more about our most popular vegetables, be sure to contact us today!