A Focus On Fruit

It’s important to do your part to see that the fruit you buy does not go to waste. The fruit farmers and growers work hard to deliver these healthy fruits to us and our job is to get them in our bellies to benefit from all their nutrients. Take a look below at some ways to use popular fruits so that they don’t go to waste. Prevent food waste by getting creative. Who knows you might just create your new favorite recipe!

Apple

The classic apple comes in many varieties and is a versatile fruit. With flavors from sweet to sour is there anything the apple isn’t good for? Plus, it is packed with vitamins and extra fiber from the skin. My personal favorite is the Honeycrisp apple with a sweet flavor and crunchy texture. My favorite way to eat apples is with peanut butter or baked with cinnamon. Try this Apple Pie Yogurt Parfait

Avocado

Avocados have been popular in recent years with avocado toast, but their subtle flavor and creamy texture can be used in many ways. With almost 20 vitamins and minerals packed into a small package and heart healthy fats, you are sure to get a nutrition bang for your buck. Be sure to check out one of my favorite recipes, Dark Chocolate Avocado Brownies, that uses avocado in place of oil and makes a super soft sweet treat. Try these Dark Chocolate Avocado Brownies

Blueberry

Blueberries are perfect for snacking or adding to a recipe. Since they don’t need to be peeled, only washed, they are one of the most convenient fruits. Did you know the white hue you may see on some blueberries is called bloom? This coating is naturally occurring on blueberries and safe to eat. One of my favorite ways to use blueberries is in pancakes or just eaten by the handful. Try this Blueberry Stuffed French Toast

Citrus

Citrus covers a wide variety of fruits including oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit and much more. The citrus flavors range from sweet to sour to a mix of both. The flavor can be used in many ways including sweet and savory. My favorite citrus would have to be the Cara Cara Orange with its super sweet flavor, only available in the winter months. Try these Crispy Fish Tacos with Citrus Slaw

Cranberry

This seasonal fruit is most common in the fall/winter, especially during the holiday season. Cranberries have a very tart flavor, but can be used to add sweetness to many dishes. Fresh, frozen, canned or dried they are always delicious. They can even be frozen up to one year so you can enjoy them year-round. I like to add cranberries to a smoothie for that sweet/tart flavor. Try these Cranberry-Orange Muffins

Grapes

It doesn’t matter if you enjoy red or green grapes, they are all delicious. The many varieties pack a flavorful crunch. When you’re not eating them by the bunch try them in new recipes including pairing with pork, chicken, fish, salads, desserts and cheese platters. I love having grapes included in a fruit salad with lots of other fruits. Try this Roasted Chilean Grape Granola Yogurt Bowl

Peach

The peach is one of summer’s most popular fruits. A member of the stone fruit family, peaches bring the sweet flavor and soft texture. There is nothing better than a sweet, juicy peach in the middle of summer. Eat them alone or in your favorite recipe. My favorite is any dessert with peaches, especially warmed up. Try this Grilled Peaches with Shortbread Crumble

Pineapple

Pineapple is a tropical fruit that is sweet and tangy. It is packed with nutrients, but especially Vitamin C. One great thing about pineapple is it can be used in desserts for a sweet option or savory in main dishes. While it is refreshing in the summertime, I love using canned pineapple or pineapple juice in smoothies all year long. Try this Pineapple-Coconut Marinade Kabobs

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are probably my favorite fruit, but unfortunately, they are not available year-round. Generally they can be found November through January. Did you know the seeds of a pomegranate are called arils? You can remove the arils and freeze them if you would like to enjoy all year. Pomegranates remind me of cranberries because of their tart/tangy flavor. My favorite way to enjoy them is by the handful. Roasted Squash, Pomegranate & Arugula Salad

Strawberry

Probably one of the most popular fruits, strawberries are delicious any way you eat them. They are another fruit that can be used in sweet or savory dishes. They can also be eaten raw, cooked, warmed up, etc. One of the most unique ways I have had strawberries is with a balsamic glaze drizzled over top. Try this No-Bake Strawberry-Lime Bars