Seasonal Superfood: Cherries

Pick the Sweet Ones

Plump, dark red cherries with tight, glossy, unblemished skin will be the tastiest.

Prevent Over Ripening

Store them unwashed in the fridge in their original breathable packaging (perforated plastic bag or clamshell), or uncovered in a colander, and they'll keep for up to five days. They'll last longer if you buy them with the stem on.

Choose the Healthiest

Antioxidants called anthocyanins give cherries their crimson color -- the richer the hue, the better for you. Cherries have anti-inflammatory compounds that can relieve sore muscles and joint pain. They also contain a similar amount of the natural hormone melatonin (which helps you fall asleep easier and slumber longer) as supplements do.

Batter

Stir chopped into cornbread, muffin or cake batter for a sweet tart accent.

Chicken Salad

Perk it up by swapping pitted cherries for grapes and adding a dash of curry powder.

Salad Dressing

Puree, then shake with balsamic vinegar, EVOO, salt and pepper for a zesty complement to meaty, main-dish salads.

Rice

Toss halved cherries with chopped celery, crumbled feta, lemon juice and brown rice and serve warm or cold.

Chutney

Macerate chopped with fresh thyme and a pinch of salt; spoon over baked brie.

BBQ Sauce

Simmer chopped with ketchup, brown sugar, cider vinegar and worcestershire sauce; brush onto ribs. The tartness helps cut rich, fatty meats.

Stuffed Pork Chops

Toss sliced with toasted almond slivers and orange zest (brings out the brighter side of cherries); stuff into pork chops before cooking.