Cranberries: Not Just for Thanksgiving!

Cranberries are much more than just a traditional Thanksgiving side dish. They’re a tart but tasty fruit that offers many health benefits. Research has found that cranberries are an excellent source of the phytochemicals (plant chemicals) known as proanthocyanidins. Studies show that these compounds prevent harmful bacteria from adhering to the lining of the urinary tract, thereby preventing painful urinary-tract infections.

While frozen cranberries are available year-round, now is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, unsweetened cranberries. They’re in season from September through December. You can enjoy unsweetened cranberries starting in Phase 2 of the South Beach Diet.

Buying
At this time of year, cranberries are available fresh or frozen. If you’re purchasing fresh cranberries, make sure they’re firm and bright red, with no signs of discoloration. If you’re buying frozen cranberries, make sure they aren’t packaged with added sugars.

Storing
Keep fresh cranberries in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze them in an airtight bag or container for up to a year. (Freezing is an especially convenient storage method for cranberries because they don’t need to be thawed before cooking.)

Preparing
Cranberries, which are too tart to be eaten raw, become tangy-sweet when cooked. They make a vibrant holiday relish and a tasty addition to salads and home-baked, whole-grain breads. More delicious options: Add cranberries to homemade compotes, toss them in wild rice or other warm-grain salads, or combine them with other fall fruits, like apples and pears, to create delicious, fruity, and whole-grain crisps. However you choose to use them, make sure you offset their tartness with other ingredients.

Source: SouthBeachDiet.com

Print This Post Print This Post

Filed Under Diet Tips, What's New 

Comments

Got something to say?





Copyright © 2008 Glennys Diet Tips