Summer is the season for fresh berries, providing a bounty of goodness at affordable prices. You would be remiss if you do not use this opportunity to incorporate the seasonal berries into many of your favorite summer recipes. There is no shortage of ways that you can use berries as the main component or a complement to the other ingredients in a meal.
Here are 10 fun ways to use berries in your summer meal plan.
Read More »Berry Fruit Salad: The most obvious way to use up all of your fresh berries is to toss them together in a delicious salad. This berry fruit salad recipe takes it up another level with the addition of a honey-lime dressing to bring it all together. The dressing is mixed with strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and cherries to create a colorful addition to any table. This recipe makes a great side dish or even a light dessert.
Berry Cobbler:This versatile berry cobbler recipe allows you to use any berry of your choice or whatever you can find at its prime peak of freshness. The berries are baked under a buttery biscuit topping that you will love sinking your teeth into when it pops out of the oven. You can stick with one type of berry or combine different varieties. Do not forget to serve this cobbler with either a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or with a dollop of whipped cream.
Melon and Mozzarella Salad: A layer of strawberries tops off this unique melon and mozzarella salad. Do not let the merger of melon and mozzarella scare you away from trying this recipe. Along with peaches, grapes, and basil, the flavors work together to deliver a recipe worthy of a spot in your regular rotation. All of the flavors are brought together with the sweet lemon and poppyseed dressing. You can also garnish this salad recipe with fresh raspberries if you want to add more berries to the mix.
Double-berry Jalapeno Jam:This double-berry jalapeno jam will become a staple on your condiment shelf. Strawberries and blackberries combine with sugar and jalapeno to make a jam that is both sweet and spicy. You will want to can this recipe to save for later in the year when you are craving the fresh taste of berries. Use the jam as a spread with crackers and cream cheese, on toasted bread, or even as a topping for brie or on your favorite burger recipe. This jam is the perfect way to use up extra berries so that you can enjoy them later.
Chicken and Blueberry Pasta Salad: Want a light summer dinner entree that will not heat up your kitchen? This nutritious chicken and blueberry pasta salad has you covered. In addition to pasta, poached chicken, and blueberries, the recipe also calls for feta cheese, lime juice, and fresh thyme. These ingredients combine to deliver an interesting main entree for your family or a great dish to bring to a summer potluck dinner.
Black Rice and Raspberry Salad: This black rice and raspberry salad is sure to be a hit. The earthy black rice is partnered with raspberries, fresh mint, crunchy pine nuts, and your choice of sprouts to provide a salad that is packed full of nutrients. A dressing of mustard, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, and pure maple syrup brings it all together. You can add poached chicken or shrimp to make this a complete meal or serve this rice dish as a side for your favorite summer entree.
Blueberry Balsamic Glazed Salmon: This blueberry balsamic glazed salmon is a great option when you are looking for a savory yet healthy dinner option. The rich salmon is coated in a sauce made with blueberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, thyme, and lemon. The whole dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a good choice if you are short on time but still want to enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal. Serve this salmon with a side of brown rice and fresh vegetables for the perfect summer meal out on the patio.
Berry with Arugula and Prosciutto Pizza: Berries on pizza? Why not? This berry with arugula and prosciutto pizza is a unique twist on more traditional pizza offerings. You can choose to make your own pizza dough or opt for a store-bought version. The dough is topped with prosciutto, arugula, strawberries, raspberries, parmesan cheese, and creamy ricotta. The pizza is salty, sweet, and savory all at the same time. Enjoy this pizza with a crisp glass of white wine.
Pork Tenderloin with Three-Berry Salsa: A trio of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries elevate an ordinary pork dish into something special with this pork tenderloin with three-berry salsa recipe. The dish also features the flavors of jalapeno pepper, lime juice, cilantro, red onion, and red pepper. Serve this dish with a loaf of garlic bread and a fresh salad.
Berries do not have to be limited to shortcakes and other classic summer dishes. These inventive recipes will help you to use up your berries in interesting ways that will keep your family from getting bored with these seasonal fruits.
