It's no secret, I love apples. Big ones, little ones, red ones, green ones, gold ones...
A trip to the orchard this time of year is a favorite family activity with many different farms competing for the most outrageous exhibition of inflatables, rides and attractions. But for me the stars of the show are the apples!
What's not to love really? There are so many varieties available from the popular Honeycrisp, tart Granny Smith or even the Sweet Sixteen with its hint of vanilla.
Apples are great in a lunch box - Just the right size, nutritious and pairs well with a sandwich. They are refreshing on a hot day when you can really use a crisp, tart and juicy snack. Perfect for a break at the paintball field, on long bike rides or adventure races, or in the middle of a backyard project.
Fruits and vegetables are at the top of almost every recommendation for healthy living. Plant rich diets are linked to lower incidences of cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Apples are high in fiber, antioxidants, phytonutrients with almost no fat, sodium or cholesterol.
Many varieties thrive here in the Midwest, with a long enough growing season and ample "chill-hours". And with commercial apples at or near the top of the "Dirty Dozen" list each year for residual pesticides, growing a tree or two in your own backyard is a wonderful idea!
In celebration of All Things Apple, how about a trip to Living History Farms? Tomorrow is
Spend Saturday afternoon in "Walnut Hill" the 1875 town, where you can take a turn on the cider press, sample fresh apple fritters and stir the kettle of apple butter.
This Saturday September 24th
11am-4pm (opens at 9am)
11am-4pm (opens at 9am)
11121 Hickman Road
Urbandale, IA 50322
For even more Apple greatness, here are some Apple Extras from PBS's documentary "Botany of Desire" with Michael Pollan.
Have a wonderful Autumn!
For even more Apple greatness, here are some Apple Extras from PBS's documentary "Botany of Desire" with Michael Pollan.
Have a wonderful Autumn!
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