National Blueberry Month

Written By Lisa Andrews

When I was growing up, seasonal fruit was SEASONAL. I looked forward to summer fruit like watermelon, peaches, and berries because they were simply not available any other time of the year.

These days, you can find strawberries in winter and oranges or apples in summer. But, the taste is never quite right. Fruit that’s out of season is more expensive and typically doesn’t have the sweetest taste or texture as seasonal fruit does.

When I think of July, my mind immediately goes to blueberries. They’re typically in season (in Ohio) from June to September. Most come from Maine, Michigan, or New Jersey.

But don’t forget about frozen blueberries. They’re just as nutritious and can be used all year round. Frozen blueberries are great in oatmeal, on top of yogurt, in smoothies or in my recipe below!

These blue beauties aren’t just a pretty face. Blueberries are one of THE best fruits you can eat for your health. Some fun facts:

  • 1 cup of blueberries has less than 85 calories and 3.5 grams of fiber

  • Blueberry intake has been linked with a decreased risk of dementia and cognitive decline.

  • Blueberries may reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke, and cancer

  • Blueberries may reduce inflammation associated with obesity

I had the pleasure of sharing some tips and tricks with Michelle Hopkins of WCPO (channel 9) news www.instagram.com/michelletvpr

One of my favorite recipes I featured is blueberry chutney. I paired it with Aldi’s cranberry sea salt crackers and a schmear of whipped cream cheese. Top the crackers with the chutney for a delicious, fancy appetizer or summertime snack:

Crackers and cream cheese

Aldi brand cranberry sea salt - 10 to 12 crackers

Whipped cream cheese 1/3 cup cream cheese

Ingredients::
1 cup frozen blueberries, mashed
1 tsp honey
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp ginger paste
1/2 tsp chopped fresh mint leaves
1/4 tsp diced red onion

🥣Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Spread 1/2 tsp. of whipped cream cheese on a cracker, then top with 1/2 tsp of blueberry chutney. Makes 10-12 servings. Enjoy!

#blueberries #blueberry #nationalblueberrymonth #eatmorefruit #eatmoreplants #preventcancer #preventdementia #preventheartdisease #preventobesity #eatwellfeelwell #eatwelllivelonger #fruit #blueberrymonth

Lisa Andrews https://www.soundbitesnutrition.com
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