Ah, summer. The season of sun, sand, and... cherries? That's right, folks! When the mercury rises, there's nothing quite like the sweet, juicy burst of a ripe cherry to cool you down. But if you're tired of just popping them straight into your mouth (though who could blame you?), we've got some cherry-licious ideas to shake things up.
Cherry Basics: Picking and Storing
Picking the Perfect Cherry
First things first, let's talk about picking cherries. Not all cherries are created equal, and knowing how to pick the best of the bunch can make all the difference. Look for cherries that are firm, shiny, and deep red in color. Avoid those with blemishes or bruises. And remember, size isn't everything! Bigger isn't always better when it comes to cherries.
When it comes to cherry stems, you want them to be green and flexible. Brown, brittle stems could indicate that the cherry is past its prime. And if the stem is missing altogether? That's a hard pass. Without a stem, a cherry is more susceptible to bacteria and spoilage.
Storing Your Cherries
So you've picked your perfect cherries. Now what? Well, it's time to store them. Cherries are delicate little things and need to be handled with care. Keep them in a breathable bag in the refrigerator, and they'll stay fresh for up to a week.
But what if you've gone cherry-crazy and bought more than you can eat in a week? No problem! Cherries freeze beautifully. Just wash them, dry them thoroughly, remove the pits if you like, and pop them in a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to a year. Imagine, enjoying the taste of summer in the dead of winter!
Cherry Recipes: From Sweet to Savory
Sweet Cherry Delights
Now, onto the fun part: eating cherries! Of course, there's the classic cherry pie. But why stop there? Cherries make a fantastic addition to all sorts of sweet treats. Try them in a clafoutis, a traditional French dessert that's a cross between a flan and a pancake. Or how about a cherry crumble, with a buttery, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft, sweet fruit?
And let's not forget about cherry ice cream. Homemade cherry ice cream, with chunks of fresh cherries and a hint of almond extract, is a revelation. It's like summer in a bowl. Or a cone. Or straight from the tub with a spoon. We're not here to judge.
Savory Cherry Surprises
But cherries aren't just for dessert. They can add a sweet, tangy twist to savory dishes too. Cherry salsa, with its mix of sweet cherries, spicy jalapenos, and zesty lime, is a game-changer. Try it on grilled chicken or fish, or just scoop it up with tortilla chips.
And have you ever tried cherries in a salad? Combine them with peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted almonds for a salad that's a symphony of flavors and textures. It's the kind of salad that makes you forget you're eating salad.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries in recipes?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries can be used in most recipes that call for fresh cherries. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain off any excess liquid.
Are cherries healthy?
Yes, cherries are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They're also low in calories and high in fiber. So go ahead, have another handful!
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks. Cherries are more than just a pretty face. They're versatile, delicious, and oh-so-summery. Whether you're popping them straight into your mouth, baking them into a pie, or adding them to a salad, cherries are a summer staple that's not to be missed. So go forth and cherry-fy your summer. You can thank us later.
