With its bright pink stalks and large leaves, rhubarb is the kind of fresh produce that stands out. It looks similar to celery but with large, kale-like leaves. For many, it's a sure sign that it's finally spring. However, if you've only had it a few times, you may wonder how best to prepare it. To make this easier, here's what to remember next time you see them while grocery shopping.

What to Know About Rhubarb

1. Use It as a Vegetable or Fruit

Rhubarb is excellent in pies, tarts, and cobblers. However, although often used in cooking as a fruit, this fresh produce is technically a vegetable. That's because it's an edible plant with leaves and stalks. It's part of the Polygonaceae family, which also includes buckwheat and sorrel. Besides using it for sweet treats, rhubarb can be pickled, made into a chutney, or added to pork chops and pasta.

2. Avoid the Leaves

Although rhubarb leaves look like kale and other healthy greens at the grocery store, you must avoid eating them due to their toxicity. They have high levels of oxalic acid, an organic compound used in metal polishes, stain removers, and ink. If ingested, the substance can close up your throat. For this reason, cut off all the leaves after buying rhubarb and place them in the compost instead. 

3. Eat it Raw

Many recipes involve cooking rhubarb with sugar to counteract the tart flavor. However, this fresh produce can be eaten raw. If you're curious, look for the Cherry Red variety at your grocery store. It's popular for a good reason: it's one of the sweetest. There's also the Victoria type, which has green stalks with a bit of red. This option is also relatively sweet and a little less tart than others.

If you're seeking fresh produce like rhubarb, stop by Cranberry Country Market. People throughout Monroe County come to this Tomah, WI, grocery store for their fresh fruits and vegetables (in season) and premium deli meat, steaks, cheeses, baked goods and delectable sandwiches (subs, wraps, panini's, fresh salads). Once spring is in full force, their greenhouse will also be open. Explore their current specials on their website, and call (608) 374-4944 for any questions.