■ Choose seasonal bell peppers by the area around the stem. Now that the season has arrived and shipments are increasing, bell peppers are a great deal. It is also recommended to eat them raw during this time. However, many people aren’t sure how to pick good bell peppers. If you see ones with smooth skin around the stem and others with bumpy skin at the store, which would you choose? The professional recommendation: “Choose the ones with bumpy, raised areas around the stem.” Bell peppers with bumpy skin around the stem are recommended, as it is a sign they are fresh and well-grown. “They look like they’ve swelled up nicely,” indicating healthy growth.
