My wife has a saying—“try something new and you’ll live a day longer.” It’s guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of those who hear it at the farmers’ market, but in the back of their minds they’re thinking, “is that really true?” Their smile is a silent acknowledgment that the saying may just be a good approach to life.

When it comes to farm food, it’s amazing how narrow our palates have become. Foods we know we like, or remember not liking, form strong patterns in our diet. Given the shift toward processing and standardization in the last few generations, it’s not surprising that many of us did not grow up with all the roots and greens now in season. These are chock full of dense nutrients we need for good health.

Take, for example, the gold turnip. Rich in vitamins and minerals, turnips are a good source of vitamin C, complex carbohydrates, and contain about twenty-seven calories in a three-ounce serving. Turnips provide a source of protein, dietary fiber, calcium, potassium and folic acid. So, in fact, if you haven’t tried gold turnips before, introducing them to your diet probably is a smart move for your overall health.

So, for those of you have yet to eat a gold turnip, go ahead, give it a try. Beyond healthy, turnips can be tasty, even trendy. These are a wonderful root vegetable, great steamed, mashed, or added to soup. But before you do anything, try a slice raw.  You’re going to be surprised! Gold turnips are great grated or chopped raw into a salad. They are much milder and sweeter than some traditional turnips you may have tasted before.

Part of what makes local agriculture so vibrant, especially in the Capay Valley, is the ability to grow unique, healthful foods year-round. We also hope that on occasion we give you the opportunity to try something new, and while we can’t guarantee it, we do believe you just might live a day longer.

- Thomas Nelson