There is good reason Blueberries are celebrated as a Superfood – high in vitamin C and potassium and a good source of Vitamin E, blueberries may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, improve cognitive function and support a healthy immune system.
Here are a few ways to start enjoying blueberries today…
- Incorporate blueberries into a green salad along with goat cheese or feta cheese and a lemon dressing.
- Combine crushed fresh pineapple, blueberries, and a tablespoon of jam to make a sauce topping for waffles or pancakes.
- Add to smoothies and shakes.
- Garnish whole grain salads made from couscous, barley, faro or bulgur with parsley and blueberries.
- Dress up plates of seafood or poultry by adding a spoonful of fresh blueberry relish, made by combining diced pickled onion, blueberries, and diced tomato.
- Toss blueberries and a bit of bleu cheese with arugula and vinaigrette for a special occasion salad.
- Blend together blueberries, Greek yogurt, and a few slices of candied ginger to make a dipping sauce to serve with sliced apples and berries.
Blueberry Waldorf Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh blueberries, divided
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large Granny Smith apple
- 4 cups (about 4 ounces) baby spinach
- 2 stalks celery, cut into 1 1/2-inch matchsticks
- 1/3 cup pecan halves, toasted
Directions:
- In a blender container, combine half the blueberries, the oil, marmalade, lemon juice, mustard and salt; blend until a smooth, thick dressing forms.
- Core and slice the apple. Arrange spinach, apple slices, celery and pecans on cold salad plates; top with remaining blueberries if using fresh. Blend dressing again until smooth and drizzle each serving with dressing.
Recipe source: Fruits and Veggies More Matters, fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org