Agretti or Beard of the Friars

Spring vegetables with a fresh and slightly acidic flavour

Crispy green threads heralding the arrival of the warmer months, a taste of the countryside with a lively and unmistakable character.

Agretti or Monks' Beard: Authenticity and Artisanal Flavor

Agretti, also known as monk's beard or Roscano, are a spring vegetable with an unmistakable appearance: thin, green, fleshy, and crunchy strands, gathered in compact heads. Their flavor is fresh and pleasantly tart, with a mineral note reminiscent of seafood. Available for a short period of the year, from spring to early summer, they are eagerly awaited by lovers of seasonal cuisine. They retain all their authenticity and authentic connection to the rhythms of the earth. Their limited harvest makes them a small seasonal luxury, a symbol of a cuisine that respects nature. They lend themselves to simple preparations that highlight their freshness.
 
 
 

The roots of this vegetable are deep in tradition

Agretti boast an ancient and curious history: in the past, the plant was cultivated not only for food but also to extract soda, used in the production of glass and soap, hence the botanical name Salsola soda. The nickname "Barba dei Frati" (Friars' Beard) comes from its shape, which reminded farmers of the unkempt beards of monks, while in many regions of Central Italy, they are known as "roscano." In rural tradition, they were one of the first fresh vegetables after the winter months, eagerly awaited as a sign of spring. They were eaten simply, boiled and seasoned with oil and lemon, to rediscover the flavor of tender vegetables. A gastronomic memory that links cuisine and ancient crafts.
 
 
 

Choosing Agretti means taking care of yourself

Agretti are a purifying and diuretic vegetable par excellence, particularly appreciated in spring cooking for their natural detoxifying effect. They are rich in minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium, which are essential for replenishing the body. They contain good amounts of vitamins A, B, and C, which are beneficial for the immune system and overall vitality. Thanks to their high water and fiber content, they promote intestinal transit and contribute to a feeling of satiety, despite being very low in calories. Their mineral and slightly salty note make them a refreshing and remineralizing food. Perfect for a light, seasonal diet.
 
 
 

How to Best Use: Agretti or Monks' Beard

• BOILED WITH OIL AND LEMON: The classic preparation that enhances their freshness: blanch the agretti for a few minutes and season them with lemon juice. Organic Costa d'Amlafi Lemon, a thread of New stone-ground extra virgin olive oil  and a grip of Breton Salt PGI.
• SPRING OMELETTE: Combine the sautéed agretti with the Fresh free-range eggs with hemp seeds for a soft and fragrant omelette, enriched with a sprinkling of grated cheese Organic Mountain Parmigiano Reggiano DOP 24 months.
• PASTA WITH GARLIC, OIL AND ANCHOVIES: Sauté the agretti with Organic Sicilian Red Garlic e spicy anchovy fillets in oil, then stir them in Organic Senatore Cappelli Spaghetti for a tasty and characterful first course.

Ingredients

Agretti (Friars' Beard).
 
 
 

Nutritional Values ​​(average values ​​per 100g of product)

• Energy: 71 kJ / 17 kcal
• Fat: 0,2 g, of which saturated fatty acids 0,03 g
• Carbohydrates: 2,5 g, of which sugars 0,8 g
• Fiber: 2,4 g
• Protein: 1,8 g
• Salt: 0,2 g

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