Cherries — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Choose cherries that are glossy and firm with a rich, uniform color, which is a good sign of ripeness and sweetness. The stems should be green and fresh, a key indicator of how recently they were harvested. Cherries should feel heavy for their size, suggesting they are juicy.

Avoid cherries that have soft spots, wrinkles, or any blemishes, as these are signs they are either overripe or have been damaged during handling. Cherries with dried or brown stems are often less fresh and flavorful.

Fresh cherries should be stored in the refrigerator. Keep them in a plastic bag or container to maintain their freshness. Properly stored cherries can last up to a week in the fridge.

Washing cherries before storing can introduce moisture, leading to quicker spoilage. Avoid placing them near strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors. Keep them dry and only wash them just before eating to extend their shelf life.

Cherries can last for 5-7 days in the refrigerator. To extend their shelf life, store them in a plastic bag or container. For longer storage, cherries can be frozen for up to 6-12 months. Pit them before freezing for convenience.

Leftover cherries can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Add them to fruit salads or mix them into smoothies for a burst of sweetness. Cherries are also great when baked into pies, tarts, or crumbles, where their natural sweetness shines.

Use cherries in a salad with greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette, or cook them down into a cherry sauce to serve with meats like pork or duck. If you have a lot of cherries, consider making homemade cherry preserves or jam to enjoy later. Cherries can also be pitted and added to yogurt or oatmeal for a healthy breakfast, or blended into a refreshing sorbet or ice cream. For a quick dessert, simply roast cherries with a drizzle of honey and serve them over vanilla ice cream.