Blueberries 101

Blueberries are a perennial flowering plant with indigo colored berries indigenous to North America. They have been growing in the wild for over 13,000 years. Organic or sustainably grown Blueberries are preferred to limit pesticide ingestion. The Environmental Working Group analyzed pesticides on 48 popular produce items (for blueberries both domestic and imported) and found that domestic blueberries rank the 14th worst and imported were at 23. To see the full list click here. The North American Blueberry consumption was 853 billion pounds in 2011. To learn more about the blueberry click here. 

To Store

Store unwashed blueberries in the refrigerator and use them quickly. Fresh organic/sustainably grown blueberries are not sprayed with anti-fungal agents and they spoil quickly. You can also freeze blueberries for future use.  Click here for more details on how to freeze blueberries 

To Nourish

Blueberries are an excellent source of fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Manganese. Blueberries contain Antioxidants that are linked to anti-aging, anti-cancer with heart health benefits. Recent research shows that blueberries can help to slow memory loss and improve coordination. Click here to read more about health benefits. 

To Prepare

In addition to being consumed fresh, blueberries can be frozen, made into jellies, jams and desserts such as pies and breakfast foods such as muffins and scones as well as dried and used in prepared foods. 

To Try 

Blueberry and Toasted Pecan Salad

Blueberry Balsamic Glazed Rosemary Chicken 

Banana-Blueberry Buttermilk Bread 

Blueberry Buttermilk Scones

Blueberry Coconut Macadamia Nut Muffins 

Blueberry Pops 

Blueberry Sauce 

New England Blueberry Slump

Blueberry Bread Pudding 

To Use

Designed especially for rinsing ripe berries, this Melamine Berry Colander has a small capacity that keeps delicate fruits from bumping, rolling and crushing each other. The smooth melamine interior is also gentle on the flesh, helping prevent bruising. ($8, Williams-Sonoma)