Here are some of the best ways to enjoy raspberries while they are in season!
What is one of your go-to healthy treats? If you are short on time - choose the original fast food - fresh fruits or veggies, or in this case, fresh berries!
One of my favorite snacks is fresh berries. My favorites are blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. Berries are quite versatile - can be eaten plain, frozen for smoothies, and used in baked goods, and topped in salads.
For some, raspberries are a hit or a miss. When the berries aren't as sweet, I like to add extra layers of flavors to give them a little something-something. If you want to like them and are open to trying them again, I believe you'll enjoy these ways.
When I worked at the local community college, our department held birthday potlucks. This was the treat I'd bring during raspberry season! One of the counselors enjoyed it so much that she brought it for my going away luncheon.
Here are three fun and delectable ways to enjoy raspberries.
Way #1 - As is! Plain, as nature intended.
When picking raspberries from the store, open the package to ensure no mold has started to grow. It only needs a hint of moisture to start the process. You are looking for uniformity in color and texture - grab the bright and glossy berries, not the darkened and definitely not bruised.
When you get home, avoid rinsing them directly under running water as this may crush the berries. Instead, fill a bowl with a 3:1 cool water to vinegar ratio to soak for 5-10 minutes. Avoid soaking too long as the raspberries will take on the vinegar taste. Swish the berries around the bowl then drain in a colander. Allow to dry before placing them in the fridge. Some people use apple cider vinegar in lieu of white distilled vinegar.
Way #2 - Optional: Add chocolate!
After rinsing the berries, add dark chocolate. A brand that most like is Enjoy Life. They are free of common allergens. They make a dark chocolate version. For an image of what this brand is you can go to the affiliate link on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3HnIC2n (You may be able to find them at a better cost locally.) If you pick up the mini chips, drop a couple into each berry. Pop the berry with the chocolate into your mouth - yum!
Ideally, for dark chocolate to be beneficial, it should be 60% or more. Some would say 70% (Healthline). The higher the percentage, the more 'bitter' it can taste. If you're new to dark chocolate, start with 60%. "Dark chocolate (70%–85% cacao) provides 36 mg of magnesium per 100 kcal serving" (NLM). [Cacao is pronounced Ka-Kow.]
"Berries and dark chocolate are loaded with antioxidants." - paraphrased, Dr. Bill Sears
Tip #3 - Top it with whip.
Top the berries (and chocolate) with coconut- (or almond-milk) whip. You'll find this in the dairy section near the refrigerated coffee creamers. Don't see it? Ask your store to carry it. The shelf life is typically less than other brands and types. Before you buy, check the sell-by date at the bottom of the can.
And a Bonus Way:
For those who want to take it a step further, you can top the berries-with-chocolate-and-whip with crushed walnuts.
Disclaimer:
I'm not an RD or Nutritionist, so if you're concerned about ingredients or calories/fat content, be sure to read the labels and choose foods that align with your preferences and dietary needs. If this sounds good to you, give it a try, and tell me about it. I'd love to hear about your experience! #goodeats
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© Conveying Awareness with Jessica David