Make the Most Out of Pomegranate Season

Make the most out of pomegranate season by incorporating this juicy and nutritious fruit into your meals! Pomegranates have been recognized as a superfood loaded with nutrients, including fiber, protein, vitamins C & K, folate, potassium, and antioxidants! Antioxidants give pomegranates their anti-inflammatory properties. This is an amazing health benefit since chronic inflammation is a risk factor for many diseases including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and obesity. 

Did you know that most pomegranates grown in the United States come from California? Although pomegranate season is short (generally end of September – November), shops and farmer’s markets often have pomegranates in stock through December or January! You can also find pomegranate juice at your local grocery store year-round!

In addition to eating the seeds raw as a delicious snack, there are many other ways you can enjoy pomegranates! What are some interesting ways you can include pomegranates into your meals this season?

• Sprinkle it on top of your salad: Pomegranate seeds can be tossed with your favorite greens to create a healthy and colorful salad that is packed with seasonal produce and bursting with flavor!  The bright red and green colors make for a festive salad that can be served at your next holiday gathering. Check out this pomegranate salad recipe from Have a Plant: Fruit and Veggies for Better Health!
• Pair it with a protein: Tenderize your meat and add a sweet and tart flavor by marinating with. You can also enhance your dish by making a sweet pomegranate dip or glaze to go alongside chicken, tofu, steak, shrimp, pork, or any protein of your choice.  Try reducing down balsamic vinegar and pomegranate juice to create a syrupy glaze to go on top of your meat!
• Add it to your morning meal: Pomegranate seeds can be sprinkled on top of oatmeal, yogurt, or avocado toast to provide added fiber, a refreshing crunch, and help you start your morning off right!  They can also be blended together with frozen fruits, such as bananas and berries, for a refreshing, ruby-red smoothie!

When it comes to pomegranates, seeding them can be quite challenging and even messy! Here’s a quick guide on how to correctly seed your pomegranates. 

1. Roll around the pomegranate to loosen up the seeds.
2. Carefully use a sharp knife to score the middle of the fruit. Cut until you get through the rind and then open up the fruit with your hands. 
3. Over a paper towel, hit the back of the fruit with a wooden spoon and watch the seeds fall right out! 
4. Pick out any remaining seeds, and enjoy your delicious pomegranate! 

For more fun and creative ideas to include pomegranates into your meals, check out these recipes from the Pomegranate Council.