So it seems that the media has deemed the pomegranate the latest "super-food." You can hardly pick up a health magazine without reading something about this "cure-all" fruit. But what's all the buzz about? Is the pomegranate really the wonder-food the media would have us believe?
Most likely not, although the pomegranate is a potent source of antioxidants, which some research suggests may have disease-fighting properties. In addition, one medium pomegranate contains just 105 calories, and is similar in potassium content to a banana.
Pomegranates are more than just nutritious - they're delicious! But before you can enjoy the deep-red berries located inside the fruit, you must first remove the outer rind.
To do this, chop off the top of the fruit, and cut the pomegranate into sections. Place these into water, and roll around the berries with your fingers to loosen them away from the pulp. Finally, drain the water and enjoy.
Use the berries in salads, shakes, sauces and baked goods - or just eat them plain. But be careful! Pomegranate juice can easily stain fingers, clothes and countertop surfaces.
Here is an easy recipe to make sure that you don't take the pomegranate for granted. Enjoy!
POM Yogurt DipIngredients:
1/4 cup 100% Pomegranate Juice1/2 cup arils from 1 large Pomegranate2 cups chilled plain yogurt2 finely chopped scallions1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro1/4 teaspoon saltGarnish (optional)Fresh mint sprigs
Directions:
1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, pomegranate juice, scallions, cilantro and salt.2. Gently fold in all but 2 tablespoons of pomegranate arils.3. Place in serving bowl and garnish with mint and remaining arils.4. Chill for 30 minutes.
Laura Nichole Heverling is completing a dual-masters program in clinical nutrition and nutrition communication at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. She has a BS in food science and human nutrition from the University of Florida.
