“Fiddle ferns (aka fiddlehead ferns}, if you know where to find them, are the first delicacy of spring {in New England}, appearing even before asparagus. Plunge them briefly in rapidly boiling water, and serve with butter, salt, and if you like, lemon juice. Chopped almonds may be added, or the ferns may be served on hot buttered toast.’’

— Sara B.B. Stamm, in Favorite New England Recipes (1972)