{"product_id":"apples-zestar-local-hollis-nh-by-the-pound","title":"Apples - Zestar (Local Hollis, NH) by the pound","description":"Zestar apples harvested from a local farm in Hollis, sold by the pound.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eZestar!® apples are a popular, cold-hardy, early-season variety developed by the University of Minnesota, known for their crisp, juicy texture and sweet-tart flavor with a hint of brown sugar. Ripening in late August to early September, they are excellent for fresh eating and versatile enough for baking and other culinary uses. Zestar! apples are also notable for their good shelf life compared to other early apples and serve as a parent of the Honeycrisp apple. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKey Characteristics\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFlavor: A distinct sweet-tart balance with a hint of brown sugar. \u003cbr\u003eTexture: Crisp and juicy, unlike many other early-season apples. \u003cbr\u003eAppearance: Medium-sized, round fruit with red skin over a yellow undercolor. \u003cbr\u003eOrigin: A trademarked variety (Minnewashta) released by the University of Minnesota in 1999. \u003cbr\u003eHardiness: Bred for cold-hardiness, performing best in cool climates.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eUses\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eZestar! apples are a versatile fruit, suitable for:\u003cbr\u003eFresh Eating: Enjoyed for their refreshing taste as the apple season begins. \u003cbr\u003eBaking \u0026amp; Cooking: Their firm texture holds up well in pies, crisps, and sauces. \u003cbr\u003eSalads: Add a satisfying crunch to salads. \u003cbr\u003eJuicing \u0026amp; Cider: Can be used for making juice.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eGrowing \u0026amp; Storing\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrowth:\u003cbr\u003eZestar! trees are productive, reliable, and can be grown in cooler climates, with fruit ripening in late August to early September. \u003cbr\u003eStorage:\u003cbr\u003eThey maintain their flavor and texture for a couple of months when stored in cool, humid conditions, such as refrigeration.","brand":"Sunny Valley Farms Market \u0026 Gift Shop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52611417538741,"sku":"191854SVF","price":1.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0997\/1551\/4549\/files\/345a3b18-b08c-46cb-b5f5-92ec8da70dc3.png?v=1780655064","url":"https:\/\/sunnyvalleymarket.com\/products\/apples-zestar-local-hollis-nh-by-the-pound","provider":"Sunny Valley Farms Market \u0026 Gift Shop","version":"1.0","type":"link"}