Season: August to November

Description: There are two types of celery grown today: self-blanching (yellowish) and green-stalked. Celery, onions, and carrots make up the French mirepoix; it is also a staple in many soups, including chicken noodle soup.

Historians have noted that wild celery leaves were part of the garlands found in the tomb of pharaoh Tutankhamun, who died in 1323 BC.

In buying celery, buy stalks with the leaves still attached, as the leaves are a good freshness indicator. You can store celery in your refrigerator for up to a week, as long as you wrap it in plastic. Like lettuce, celery is 95% water.

Did you know? Celery contains pthalides which help relax artery muscles that regulate blood pressure. Celery seeds are sometimes taken for arthritis.