Fruit That's Iced is Just as Nice

Remember those 3 for $5 berry days in the summer? They seem so far away, especially with today's blizzard-like weather! The good news is that you don't have to look far to enjoy summer's favourite fruits; just make your way to the freezer.

Frozen fruit is just as tasty and nutritious as fresh fruit and doesn't require the preparation (washing, peeling, chopping).  You can find choices like plain strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, mixed berries, mango and peaches that typically have little to no additives. What they do have is water and fibre that can help with weight control by making us feel full.

An alternative to buying frozen fruit is making your own. You can save money and support local farmers by buying fresh fruit in-season and then freezing for later use.  Frozen fruit can be kept for up to one year.

To freeze fruit:

1.      Rinse fruit and remove any bruised or spoiled parts and cores.

2.      Place fruit pieces/slices in a single layer on a baking sheet (this will prevent sticking later on)

3.      Freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags.

4.      Squeeze air out of the bags and seal.

5.      Label bags with the date so you know when they'll expire.

4 Ways to Eat Frozen Fruit

1.      Icy fruit pops

2.      Muesli

3.      Refreshing smoothies

4.      Topping for pancakes, waffles, French toast or angel food/sponge cake

·        Thaw and warm up frozen fruit in a pot over the stove or in the microwave. Try adding orange or lemon zest or almond extract.

Source: eatrightontario.ca