Looking to try something a little different? Pomegranates, a healthy and distinctive treat, each hold at least 800 sweet, tart, gemlike seeds bursting with flavor. Though it may seem an exotic and sometimes cumbersome fruit to enjoy, pomegranates are actually easy to eat. Impress your guests by using pomegranate seeds as a garnish on desserts or a colorful topping for a ho-hum salad. They also work well as a sweet and crunchy addition to your appetizers.

Selecting Pomegranates

When selecting your pomegranate, look for thin, tough and unbroken skin - an indication that the flavor is fully developed. Heavier fruits also indicate fully developed flavors.

Use

For maximum seeds, follow these simple directions: Lightly score the rind in several places, then carefully break the sections apart under water. You can separate the seeds from the rind with your fingers. Discard the rinds and strain the seeds through a colander.

To make pomegranate juice, mix the seeds in a blender or food processor and then strain. Pomegranate juice can be stored frozen for up to six months.

Nutritional Information

These unique fruits are a rich source of Vitamin C and are loaded with polyphenols, some of the most powerful antioxidants around! Some studies have shown that pomegranates may contain three times the antioxidants compared to green tea or red wine — now that’s a healthy little fruit!

Storage

Pomegranates should be stored in a cool, dry place for up to one month (they’ll last two months in a refrigerator). You can also freeze the seeds in a single layer and then transfer them to an airtight container to store for up to six months.

Seasonality

Pomegranate fruits are available in limited quantities September through January, and their juice is available in limited quantities throughout the year.