Agretti

— OUT OF SEASON — RETURNS SPRING 2026 —

Fresh Agretti

Fresh agretti (also known as Barba di Frate or Monk's Beard) is one of the exciting crops of spring at the farm. Highly prized in traditional Italian cuisine, this rare, succulent maritime green is sought after for its distinctive texture, bright minerality, and deep culinary history.

What Is Agretti?

Agretti is a specialty spring succulent that looks similar to long chives or pine needles but possesses a uniquely crisp, fleshy snap. Historically cultivated along the Mediterranean coastline, it must be harvested young before the thin stalks become woody or tough.

These vibrant green strands are immensely popular lightly sautéed or steamed, serving as a brilliant seasonal delicacy that announces the arrival of spring.*

What Does It Taste Like?

Agretti delivers a remarkably bright, complex flavor profile that balances earthy, grassy tones with a crisp, refreshing brininess. Its flavor is often described as pleasantly sour, salty, mineral-rich, and slightly peppery, akin to a cross between sea fennel, spinach, and samphire.

• Texture — uniquely juicy, fleshy, and crunchy with a satisfying, tender snap
• Flavor — clean, maritime saltiness with a refreshing, slightly acidic finish

Agretti pairs exceptionally well with high-quality olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, seafood, pasta, soft-poached eggs, toasted pine nuts, and sharp Italian cheeses.

How to Use Agretti

• Blanch quickly and toss with extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice
  
• Sauté lightly with garlic and chili flakes as a premium side dish
  
• Toss into hot spaghetti or linguine with seafood, bottarga, or lemon zest
  
• Serve raw in crisp, refreshing salads to showcase its natural, succulent snap
  
• Incorporate into spring frittatas, tarts, or sophisticated vegetable compositions
  

Because it is harvested at peak tenderness, it requires minimal cooking to preserve its vibrant green color and famous structural crunch.

Our agretti has become a highly anticipated seasonal staple at the Union Square Greenmarket and appears each spring on the menus of many of New York’s leading restaurants.

Shipping & Delivery

We ship all produce via overnight delivery nationwide.
At checkout, please select your preferred delivery date.

Order Deadlines:
• Order by Friday at 12 PM EST → Tuesday delivery
• Order by Monday at 12 PM EST → Thursday delivery
If a delivery date falls on a holiday, your box will arrive on the next available business day.