Vegetable mouse

The French name for kiwifruit (souris vegetales or “vegetable mouse”) accurately describes the fuzzy little ovals. Luckily, the fruits are perfectly vegetarian—and, in fact, are a kind of berry that grows on a vine. Almost all of the kiwi grown in the U.S. come from California, and early fall is harvest time. Look for firm fruits to slice and eat out of hand or to toss in salads. If you aren't squeamish, you can eat the skin for extra fiber. Gorgeous yellow varieties are gaining popularity and have a more citrusy flavor than the green.