#United States #Yakima #Northwest Cherries #Cherry Recipes #Back-to-School Snacking

The Sweet End of Cherry Season: Stock Up for Back-to-School

As September approaches, the Northwest cherry season is coming to a delightful close. This summer yielded an impressive crop of fresh cherries, making it a prime time to incorporate these superfruits into your family's diets before the season ends. Perfect as a nutritious snack for back-to-school lunches, the sweet cherries from the Northwest offer flavors and health benefits that kids and parents alike will appreciate.

A Bountiful Harvest

Karley Lange, the director of domestic promotions at Northwest Cherry Growers, recently shared that the favorable growing conditions this season led to an outstanding yield of exceptionally high-quality cherries. The longer season has allowed consumers more time to purchase, savor, and even preserve these fruits for later in the year.

Northwest cherries are packed with polyphenols, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, renowned for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Just one cup of these delightful cherries can provide about 12% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C, which is vital for boosting the immune system. Plus, their low glycemic index makes them a smart and satisfying choice for snack time.

Ideal Snacks for Kids

As the back-to-school hustle begins, many parents are looking for easy and nutritious snack options. Northwest sweet cherries are ideal for school lunches, as they can be enjoyed fresh, dried, or preserved. Here are some easy ideas for including cherries in your family's diet:

1. Fresh Cherries: Simply wash and pack them for a quick grab-and-go snack.
2. Cherry Salsa: Combine fresh cherries with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a zesty dip.
3. Dried Cherry Overnight Oats: Mix oats, yogurt, and dried cherries for a delicious morning treat.
4. Cherry BBQ Sauce: Blend cherries into a tangy BBQ sauce for chicken or ribs.

These recipes not only highlight the remarkable taste of cherries but also infuse essential nutrients into meals, proving that healthy snacking can be simple and delicious.

Preserving the Flavor

For those wanting to enjoy cherries beyond the harvest season, there are numerous preservation methods available. From freezing to drying, the options are plenty:

• - Low Sugar Cherry Jam: A perfect spread for toast or pancakes.
• - Quick Pickled Sweet Cherries: This can add a sweet and tart kick to salads.
• - Cherry BBQ Chicken: Marinating chicken in a cherry sauce can elevate the flavors of any BBQ dish.

The beauty of these preservation methods is that they allow you to enjoy the taste and health benefits of cherries throughout the year. Some delicious recipes include:

• - Steak and Arugula Salad with Cherry and Almonds
• - Dried Cherry Quinoa Salad: Filling and nutrient-dense, this salad can serve as a main dish or a side.

Supporting Local Growers

The Northwest cherry industry is significant, with more than 2,200 growers spanning across five states, responsible for over 70% of the fresh cherries available in markets nationwide. By purchasing these cherries, you not only provide your family with nutritious snacks but also support local agriculture.

For more information on the health benefits of cherries and a treasure trove of recipes, visit nwcherries.com.

Conclusion

As the cherry season draws to a close, seize the opportunity to stock up on this superfruit while you can. Whether fresh, frozen, or transformed into delicious jam, Northwest cherries are a fantastic addition to your back-to-school snack repertoire. Incorporate the sweet and nutritious cherries into your family's meals and enjoy their bounty while it lasts!