The standard orange carrot probably didn't exist before the 16th century. Before that, most carrots were yellow, white, or purple. Though the true tale of the orange carrot's ascension to power has been obscured by time, most would agree that it was bred in relation to the Dutch House of Orange. Luckily, as old varieties rise to the surface and new varieties emerge, we can again enjoy the full range of the carrot, not only in color, but in shape and use, too. United only in deliciousness, this hodge-podge army of roots brightens all summer salads and stores great for sweet mid-winter crunch.