Recipes

5 Raspberry Recipes That Taste Just Like Summer 0

As days become hotter by the minute, we're all looking for bites that'll cool us off from that very first moment, and that is where raspberries step in. The ruby-red berries sport a sweet (and slightly tart) flavor that makes almost anything taste better without overwhelming your gut. More than that, they are rich in antioxidants and fiber, giving you a major health boost with each bite. And now that Raspberry Cream Pie Day⁽¹⁾ is upon us (on August 1st), we have every excuse in the world to enjoy the summer fruit in tons of delicious ways, from pies to salads. So, if you're ready to jump in on the action, these five raspberry recipes are here to give your meals a pop of red color.

1. Raspberry-Glazed Chicken

There's no denying that roasting chicken in lemon and herbs is great. But, have you ever tried glazing your poultry with raspberry-balsamic dressing? Trust us; this is a flavor combo that you don't want to miss!

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut in fillets
½ tbsp dried garlic
2 tbsp ghee
½ tbsp honey
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
½ cup freeze dried raspberries
½ tsp dried thyme
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper

Directions:

Add the raspberries and half a cup of warm water to a bowl and hydrate for 15 minutes.
Heat a saucepan over medium heat and melt the ghee.
Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
Stir in the vinegar, raspberries, honey, and spices, and simmer for about 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
Preheat the oven to 350^oF.
Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the chicken fillets. Season each one with salt and pepper (to your taste) and brush with two tablespoons of the dressing.
Cook for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

2. Raspberry Cream Pie

If you didn't make a raspberry cream pie on Raspberry Cream Pie Day, did you really do the whole thing right? Sure, whipping up a pie from scratch sounds like a lot of work, but this version requires nothing more than a light whisk, a little bit of layering, and a quick freeze.

Ingredients:

25 Graham crackers
¼ cup butter, melted
½ cup cream cheese
1/3 cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
2/3 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freeze dried raspberries
2 tbsp cornstarch
3 tbsp water
1 cup granulated sugar

Directions:

Add the raspberries and 1 cup of water to a bowl and let them hydrate for 15 minutes. Squeeze away any excess liquid and set aside.
Toss the crackers and butter to a food processor and blend until your form a dough. Then, spread it evenly on a pie dish.
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer until creamy. In a separate bowl, add the heavy cream and beat until it turns stiff. Then, toss it with the cream cheese mixture and mix well. Spread it on top of the crust and refrigerate overnight.
The next day, combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Heat a saucepan over medium heat and add the granulated sugar and the raspberries. Bring to a boil and keep stirring, so the sauce doesn't stick. Once boiling, stir in the cornstarch mixture. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Once cooked, set it aside to cool and, then, refrigerate until firm. Lastly, spread it onto the cream cheese layer and serve.

3. Raspberry Cashew Ice Cream

Let's be honest: Summer without ice cream isn't really summer. But, sometimes we want something a bit healthier. This recipe combines the best of both worlds by skipping heavy cream and, ultimately, delivers a treat that's both delicious and healthy.

Ingredients:

1 cup freeze dried raspberries
1 cup non-dairy milk
¼ cup maple syrup
1 ½ cups cashews
2 Medjool dates, pitted
½ tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

Directions:

Add the raspberries to a blender along with ¼ cup of water and blend until you form a thick pulp. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
Add the remaining ingredients to the blender and process until they are evenly combined.
Pour the two mixtures into a container alternatively to form a nice-looking swirl.
Then, place the container to the freezer for about 6 hours or overnight.

4. Brie + Raspberry Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Even though raspberries may not seem like a natural fit for grilled cheese, this recipe puts the fruit's slightly acidic flavor to good use by pairing it with some buttery brie. This sweet-tangy combo may sound outlandish, but we believe it could become your new go-to.

Ingredients:

8 slices of bread
1/3 cup unsalted butter
1 cup freeze dried raspberries
1 cup brie cheese, crumbled
2-3 tbsp maple syrup

Directions:

Add one cup of warm water and the raspberries to a bowl. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze them as gently as possible to remove excess water and transfer them to a bowl. Mash them with the back of a fork until your form a chunky puree.
Butter one side of each of the bread slices and place 4 of them butter side down and the remaining 4, butter side up.
Top the first ones with a dollop of the crumbled brie, a tablespoon of the mashed raspberries, and drizzle with maple syrup. Place the remaining bread slices on top.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of butter.
Grill the sandwiches for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the brie has melted.

5. Spinach, Raspberry, and Candied Pecan Salad

Candied pecans are always a great selling point, but in this recipe, it's the spinach/raspberry combo that does all the work. Both ingredients add a refreshing touch to the mix and complement each other's flavors.

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups candied pecans
9 cups baby spinach
½ cup freeze dried raspberries
1/3 vegetable oil
2 tbsp vinegar
½ tbsp sugar
1 tsp maple syrup
½ tsp salt
¼ ground mustard

Directions:

In a bowl, add the raspberries and half a cup of warm water and soak them for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away any excess liquid and set aside.
Whisk all the ingredients (except for the pecans, spinach, and raspberries) in a bowl. Then, toss in the remaining ingredients and serve.

Which raspberry recipes you simply can't resist trying? Let us know in the comments down below!

References:

6 Delicious Potato Recipes That Aren't Just Fries 0

Let's be honest: We often take potatoes for granted. Perhaps it's because we can't think past fries or because low-carb diets are still a thing. No matter the reasoning, the humble spud often slips under our radar, which means we tend to miss out on a lot of flavors.

However, if there is a time to experiment with potatoes, that's in August. Between the summer potlucks and a National Potato Day⁽¹⁾ just yearning to be celebrated (FYI, it's on the 19th), the spuds are literally like a culinary canvas in your hands. So, if you want to explore your options and finally serve something other than fries at your next cookout, these six potato recipes are worth trying.

1. Creole Potato Salad

A staple at summer cookouts and potlucks, potato salad often fades into obscurity as a "basic" side dish. But, this southern twist on the classic doesn't leave much room for snubbing. Thanks to its fiery taste, eye-popping colors, and nose-tingling aroma, it's one of those sides that you simply can't ignore.

Ingredients:

3 cups dried potato dices
1/3 cup chopped cooked bacon
½ cup Greek yogurt
½ cup sour cream
1 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp creole/cajun seasoning
2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
1 spring onion, sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Add the potatoes to a pot and top with warm water. Let them soak for 15 minutes and then transfer the pan to the stove. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are cooked through.
Transfer to a bowl and set in the fridge for 20 minutes to chill.
Once cool, stir in all the ingredients and toss well until everything is evenly combined.

2. Mashed Potatoes with Goat Cheese & Bacon

Even though this potato recipe doesn't yield the most stunning presentation, it makes up for it in flavor – and it's all thanks to the chives and the bacon, which make the taste bolder. For a punchier taste, you could sub goat cheese with sour cream.

Ingredients:

4 cups dried potato dices
½ cup butter
1 cup goat cheese, crumbled
1/3 cup chopped cooked bacon
1/3 cup dried chives
¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Pour the potatoes in a pot and fill it with water. Let the bites soak for 15 minutes and, then, bring the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender. Using a sieve, strain them and, then, transfer them to a bowl.
Mash the potatoes with the back of a fork and stir in the ingredients until they are evenly combined. Serve immediately.

3. Potatoes Au Gratin

It's a fact: Even when they fly solo, potatoes are a hit. But, when they are paired with cheese and cream, there's zero chance they will ever disappoint. This potato recipe has the perfect ratio of Parmesan to spuds and will make even the pickiest of eaters ask for seconds.

Ingredients:

4 cups dried potato dices
2 ½ cups Parmesan cheese, grated
3 cups heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp salt
½ tsp dried garlic
½ tsp dried thyme
1 tsp black pepper

Directions:

Add three cups of warm water to a bowl and soak the potatoes for 15 minutes.
Once hydrated, toss them in a bowl and season with the thyme, salt, garlic, and pepper.
Transfer half of them to a medium-sized baking dish and coat them with half the cheese and half the cream.
Then, top with the remaining potatoes and sprinkle with the remaining cheese and cream.
Preheat the oven to 350^oF and bake for an hour or until the spuds are cooked through.

4. Old Bay Roasted Potato Bites

If there's one ingredient that can turn potatoes from bland to delicious, that's herbs and spices. And sure, rubbing them with pepper and oregano surely does the trick, but if you're in for the ultimate flavor bang, Old Bay Seasoning is where it's at. This recipe puts the blend to great use and features the spud in mini bites that are perfect for kids.

Ingredients:

3 cups dried potato dices
3 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tbsp Old Bay seasoning
Salt, to taste

Directions:

Place the potato bites to a bowl with 3 cups of warm water and soak for 15 minutes.
Once hydrated, squeeze them to remove excess liquid and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Preheat the oven to 480^oF.
Toss the potatoes with the olive oil, seasoning, and salt (if needed).
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Serve with aioli or any kind of creamy sauce.

5. Honey BBQ Potato + Chicken Foil Packet

We get it: you are no Gordon Ramsay. Yet, you really want to whip up something delicious (and slightly fancy) for National Potato Day. In this case, foil packets are impossible to mess up. This summery version has all the cookout fixins, from honey BBQ sauce to roasted veggies. So, bon appetit!

Ingredients:

2 boneless chicken breasts
3 cups dried potato dices
¼ cup olive oil
3 tbsp canned sweetcorn
½ small onion, thinly sliced
3 tbsp dried red bell pepper
3 tbsp freeze dried broccoli
¼ cup BBQ sauce
1 tbsp honey
2 tsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

In a large bowl, add the bell pepper, broccoli, and potatoes and top with warm water. Let the veggies soak for 15 minutes.
Turn on the oven grill to medium heat. Cut two large squares of aluminum foil and place one chicken breast in each. Then, split the vegetables and put them in each packet.
In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, vinegar, and paprika. Brush the contents of each pack with the sauce, especially the chicken and the potatoes.
Seal the packet from the sides to close it off and grill for 15 minutes. Then, flip over the contents and grill for an additional 15 minutes.

6. Cheesy Chipotle Latkes

If you thought latkes were only for Hannukah, think again. These potato-based treats taste amazing year-round, especially when you pair them with crowd-pleasing ingredients like chipotle and Cheddar cheese. This twist can also stand on its own as lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried potato dices
¼ cup dried onion
½ tsp dried garlic
1/3 cup Cheddar cheese
1 chipotle chile
1 tsp adobo sauce
¼ tsp baking soda
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 egg
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Add the potatoes and onion to a bowl with 2 cups of warm water and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, remove them from the water and grate them, squeezing away any excess liquid.
Transfer them to a big bowl and stir in the remaining ingredients until you form a thick-ish batter.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Form small balls of the mixture with your hands, place them in the skillet, flatten them with a spatula, and fry them on both sides until they turn brown and crisp.

How will you celebrate National Potato Day? Do you have any original potato recipes that you'd like to share with us? Let us know in the comments below!

References:

5 Bacon Recipes That Are Actually Healthy 0

Admit it: If you could have it your way, every day would be bacon day. However, International Bacon Day⁽¹⁾ is celebrated only once a year, and that's on the 29th of August. Not to mention, eating heaps of salty pork on the reg isn't good for your health. But, it's not all bad news: You see, in just a few weeks, we'll all welcome this quirky celebration, which means we'll be able to fry, bake, or sizzle the treat to our heart's content.

However, the highlight of the day is that this year, we’re going all in with real bacon—crispy, smoky, and undeniably satisfying. While it may not win awards for heart health, when enjoyed in moderation, good-quality bacon can absolutely have its place in a celebratory meal. So if you're ready to savor that rich, savory flavor in full force, these five bacon recipes are definitely worth your attention.

1. Zucchini-Bacon Egg Cups

Ready in less than 30 minutes, these bacon-y egg cups are perfect for anyone who wants to rush out the door in the morning, but hates the idea of starting the day on an empty stomach. Plus, they are packed with protein thanks to the eggs, so it's a win-win for everyone.

Ingredients:

9 eggs
½ cup chopped cooked bacon
1/3 cup milk
1 zucchini, grated
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Add the bacon bits to a bowl along with one cup of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes, squeeze away excess liquid, and transfer to a pan. Cook them for a few minutes until they turn crispy.
Beat the eggs in a bowl and stir in the remaining ingredients one by one.
Preheat the oven to 400^oF and grease a muffin tin.
Pour the mixture in each cup, filling ¾ of the way. Bake for half an hour or until the cups turn golden brown.

2. Chocolate Bacon Peanut Bark

Chocolate and peanuts are a match made in heaven. But, if you want to go the extra mile flavor-wise, bacon could serve as your "secret weapon." Pro tip: Opt for unsalted peanuts because bacon's saltiness is enough as it is.

Ingredients:

1/3 cup chopped cooked bacon
3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup unsalted peanuts

Directions:

Add the bacon to a bowl with warm water and soak for 15 minutes. Then, squeeze the bits to get rid of excess liquid and set them aside.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 400°F. Bake the bites for 10-15 minutes or until they turn brown and crispy.
Fill a pot with water and place a heatproof bowl on top of it. Add the chocolate to the bowl and bring the water to a boil. Keep stirring with a spatula as the chocolate starts melting.

Stir in the bacon and peanuts and pour the mixture to the baking sheet. Make sure you spread it evenly.
Refrigerate the bark for one hour. Make sure you let it thaw for 2-3 minutes before you cut it into pieces.

3. Bacon-y Roasted Chickpeas

Salty, crunchy, and packed with fiber, roasted chickpeas are the ultimate "clean-eating" snack. However, this recipe catapults the treat into the indulgent territory by introducing TVP Bacon to the mix. And you know what that means: You can have your flavor (and nutrients), too!

Ingredients:

1 ¼ cups dehydrated chickpeas
3 tbsp chopped cooked bacon
1 tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Directions:

Add the chickpeas and 2 cups of warm water to a bowl and soak the chickpeas overnight.
Once hydrated, pat them dry with a towel and transfer them to a bowl.
Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Preheat the oven to 350^oF and roast the chickpeas for about an hour or until they turn golden and crispy.
Then, stir in the bacon bits and serve.

4. Bacon & Raisin Oatmeal Cookies

Oatmeal raisin is a classic cookie combination. But, throw in a little bacon, and you've got yourself a treat that even gourmet chefs would be proud of. Pro tip: You can use honey or agave instead of granulated sugar for a healthier version.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
2/3 cup raising
¾ cup chopped cooked bacon
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter
2 eggs
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Directions:

In a bowl, pour 2 cups of warm water and the bacon and soak for 15 minutes. Once done, squeeze the bits to remove excess water and place them in a skillet. Cook the bacon for a while until it turns gold and crispy. Set aside.
Add the flour, baking powder, soda, and salt to a bowl and mix to combine.
In a separate bowl, add the butter and sugar and mix using an electric mixer. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract and mix well. Lastly, stir in the dry ingredients.
Once evenly combined, fold the bacon, oats, and raisins into the batter and form the dough into small balls.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about an hour.
Preheat the oven to 375^oF and bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

5. Bacon Vinaigrette Dressing

If you're looking for a way to make your salads more exciting, this bacon vinaigrette recipe is where the money's at. Despite its fancy looks, the dressing is pretty easy to make and calls for basic ingredients, which you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it takes minutes to prep, which is always a plus.

Ingredients:

½ cup chopped cooked bacon
1 tsp dried garlic
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
3 tbsp Dijon mustard
3 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

Directions:

Place the bacon in a bowl and top with warm water. Soak for 15 minutes to hydrate.
Then, squeeze away excess liquid and place the bacon in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the bacon turns crispy.
Transfer the bacon to a plate and reserve the liquids in the skillet.
Add the remaining ingredients to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Simmer for a couple of minutes and fold the bacon bits.
Transfer to a jar and serve it on top of salads, chicken fillets, or roasted vegetables.

Which bacon recipes will you use to celebrate International Bacon Day? Let us know in the comments down below!

References:

5 Spinach Recipes That You Will Love 0

Spinach may be the vanilla of vegetables, but its benefits are innumerable. Filled with iron, spinach is one of the best vegetables for keeping anemia at bay. It contains antioxidants that will keep your skin glowing. With its high fiber content, you should make it an everyday meal.¹

Spinach can be used in salads, soups, smoothies, salads, sandwiches, pasta, and also on its own as a healthy snack option. Here are different spinach recipes good for the whole family.

1. Spinach And Watermelon Salad²

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

½ cup baby spinach
1 cup of watermelon, chopped
½ cup quinoa
2 tablespoon pumpkin seeds
1 ripe avocado
1 tbsp chopped mint
2-ounce feta cheese
1 tablespoon of lime juice
A handful of salad cress

Method

Wash the quinoa, then put it in a pan and add water. Cover with a lid and cook for at 15 minutes at medium heat. When cooked, it gets fluffy and may stick to the pan. Comb it through with a fork and set it aside.
On a separate pan, toast the pumpkin seeds until they pop.
On a platter, add the pumpkin seeds to the spinach, watermelon, mint, avocado, and feta. Mix them in the quinoa and sprinkle the lime juice over it.
Top it with the cress and serve.

Cooking Tip

You can add seasoning or spice of your choice to the salad.
Use dried spinach to add a tasty flavor.

2. Spinach And Matcha Powder Pancakes³

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

½ cup spinach
1 cup self-rising flour
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoon matcha powder
3.5 oz milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoon maple syrup
3 eggs
1 oz butter
4 tablespoon lime curd or honey
4 tablespoon natural yogurt

Method

Pour the spinach, matcha powder, and milk into a blender and whisk up until there are no lumps. Pour the mixture into a large bowl with the other ingredients and beat until it’s smooth.
Melt some butter in a non-stick pan and pour the batter in small portions. Let them cook 2 minutes, then turn over and cook the other side. Do this until all the batter is finished.
Drizzle warm lime curd or honey and serve the pancakes hot.

Cooking Tip

You can eat the pancakes with a side of green grapes, sliced apples, pears, or a handful of blueberries. Garnish with mint leaves for the eye-appeal.

3. Spinach And Strawberry Smoothie⁴

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup ripe strawberries, hulled
½ cup baby spinach
1 small avocado (cut and seed removed )
5 oz bio yogurt
¼ cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
½ tsp orange zest

Method

Rinse the strawberries and the spinach.
Pour all the ingredients in a blender and blend until there are no chunks visible. Check for your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, pour in some chilled water then whizz again.
Serve chilled and fresh.

Cooking Tip

Throw in some ice cubes to make it cooler if you don’t want to put it in the fridge before you drink it. This spinach recipe is incredible if you’re dieting.

4. Spinach Soup⁵

Cooking time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup spinach
1 ounce salted butter
2 small sticks celery
1 bunch spring onions
1 leek
A small potato
½ tsp ground black pepper
1 liter chicken or vegetable stock
5 oz half-fat crème fraîche

Method

Wash and chop the vegetables. Peel and dice the potatoes.
In a large pan, heat the butter and the chopped celery, spring onions, leek, and potato. Stir well and cover. Let it cook and turn them a couple of times.
Slowly pour the stock into the vegetables and cook for 10 minutes. The potato should get soft.
Put in the spinach and let it simmer for 3 minutes until wilted.
Transfer the cooked mixture into a bowl and use a hand blender to blend to a smooth soup.
Stir in the crème fraîche and serve.

Cooking Tip

The blending may cause the soup to cool, reheat it before serving. Use sour cream if you can’t access the crème fraîche.

5. Cheese And Spinach Pie⁶

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

¼ cup frozen spinach
2 tsp parmesan
4 tsp cheddar (grated)
A pinch of ground nutmeg
Flour (for dusting)
7 oz shortcrust pastry

Method

Defrost the spinach.
Preheat the oven to 180°.
Put the baking parchment on the baking tin.
Lay the spinach on kitchen paper and pat flat to get rid of excess water.
Put the spinach in a bowl and add the cheeses and nutmeg. Mix through and set aside.
Dust some flour on your working surface.
Roll the pastry out in a long rectangle and cut out 6 circles with a biscuit cutter.
Brush the pastry ends with water and then put the spinach mixture into the middle of each circle with a spoon.
Next, pull the ends and press them together. Brush the tops with water and piece with a fork to make holes.
Put in the oven and bake for 20 minutes until it’s golden.
Let it cool and serve.

Cooking Tips

Defrost the spinach in advance to save on cooking time. The spinach pastries can be eaten warm or cold. They are an excellent snack for take-away lunches and picnic.

6. Chilli Spinach And Lemon Crumbs Snack⁷

Cooking time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups spinach
½ cup fresh breadcrumb
1 oz butter
1 lemon zest
2 garlic cloves,
1 red chili, finely

Method

Heat a frying pan and put in the butter. When it melts and foams, place the breadcrumbs, crushed garlic zest, and chopped chilli. Fry until light brown and crispy.
Add seasoning and set aside.
Put the spinach on the same pan and stir until it wilts.
Sprinkle the crunchy crumbs on top serve hot.

Cooking Tip

For more flavor, season the spinach when it’s cooking as well.

Take Away

Spinach is versatile and easy to cook. Most spinach recipes take a short time to make, making them a quick healthy meal when you’re pressed for time.

Spinach is a soft vegetable, suitable even for babies and younger children for the whole family. Try out these recipes with our dried spinach today.

References

How to Celebrate National Blueberry Month 0

Did you know that July is the National Blueberry Month? Blueberries are a perfect addition to pancakes, oatmeal, smoothies, and yogurt. They surely do deserve a month to celebrate them—what an ideal opportunity to discuss the health benefits of blueberries.

Blueberries are native to North America, and they are grown in 35 out of 50 states. North America supplies blueberries to 95% of the world. Currently, the four-week harvesting between late March and April can supple the whole United States.¹

Why are blueberries considered to be a superfood? Eating just a quarter cup of blueberries daily can make a significant impact on your health. Here are a few facts about blueberries.²

Blueberry Facts

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants. They have the highest antioxidant capacity compared to other fruits. The powerful antioxidants in blueberries improve the immune system and prevent infections such as urinary tract infections.
Blueberries can help reduce the risk of cancer. They contain anthocyanin that gives them the dark hue, which is known to attack free radicals that cause cancer in the body.
Blueberries can help with weight loss. They are low in fat and sodium and are low in calories, with just about 80 calories per cup, making them a healthy, low-calorie snack.
Blueberries are also rich in Vitamin C that promotes tissue growth and wound healing. They provide about 25% of the daily requirement for vitamin c in one serving
Rich in manganese that supports bone development and helps the body to process cholesterol and convert carbohydrates to energy.
Blueberries are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which reduces the risk of heart diseases and obesity since it adds bulk to your diet and keeps you full longer. Three servings of blueberry a week can help to fight heart diseases, memory loss, and indigestion.
Blueberries are excellent for the brain. They improve brain health and reduce the risk of memory loss.

How to Celebrate The National Blueberry Month

Make blueberry pancakes

Allow your family to wake up to the delicious blueberry pancakes. Pop a few blueberries in the batter to make a yummy and healthy breakfast to satisfy your family’s appetite.

Flavor your water with blueberry

Throw in a couple of blueberries in your water bottle and get infused flavored water.

Make smoothies

Add blueberries to your smoothie and get a boost of antioxidants. You can add frozen blueberries to add the icy texture.

Make a fruits rainbow platter

Arrange cut pieces on different fruits according to their color in a fruit tray. Blueberries add the blue ray in the rainbow.

Make jam

Use blueberries to make home-made jam and add a delicious flavor to your bread.

3 Blueberry Recipes to Make During The National Blueberry Month

Take advantage of the abundance of blueberries to incorporate them into your smoothies, salads, and other family recipes. Try out these simple blueberry recipes to celebrate the National Blueberry Month.

1. Blueberry Ice Cream⁴

Ingredients

4 ripe bananas chopped and frozen overnight
1 cup of blueberries
A pinch of salt

Method

Put the bananas, blueberries, and salt in a food processor. Puree the mixture until smooth and creamy. Cover and freeze. Remove from the freezer 10 minutes before serving

2. Blueberry and Banana Smoothie⁴

Ingredients

1 banana sliced
1 cup blueberries
1-½ cup of pineapple chunks
1 cup milk (coconut or almond)
Ice cubes

Method

Blend the blueberries, milk, banana, and pineapple until thick and smooth. Serve immediately.

3. Blueberry Ice Pops³

Ingredients

1 cup blueberry and chia seed jam
1 cup of coconut water
A pinch of salt
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
½ cup blueberries
You will also need ice pop molds

Method

Blend the jam, coconut water, salt, and lime juice and till smooth.
Add the blueberries. Pulse to break up the blueberries.
Pour the mixture into ice-pop molds. Insert sticks and freeze for about 3 hours. Run under hot water for a few seconds to unmold.

4. Blueberry Muffins⁵

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups blueberries
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup milk (dairy or nondairy)
2 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup oil
2 eggs

Method

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees
Line standard size 8-10 muffin cups with paper liners
Whisk together all the dry ingredients in a large bowl
Mix together the oil, egg, milk, and vanilla. Whisk to combine.
Add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients and combine with a fork.
Fold in the blueberries. Pour the batter in the muffin cups. Sprinkle some sugar on top of each muffin
Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Cool in a cooling rack and serve. They can stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature or frozen for three months.

Are you ready to experience the goodness of the blueberries? Reduce the time you’d take to go to your local market or store to buy online from us at Mother Earth Products. Be sure to try out these blueberry recipes this National Blueberry Month and share with us the outcome in the comment section below.

References

5 Delish Ways to Celebrate National Onion Day 0

Now that June is in full swing, summer fruits and veggies are (once again) the star of the show. However, the real MVP of summer produce was, is, and will always be the humble onion. Whether you're making a salad or whipping up a frittata, the overlooked bulb can make any dish burst with flavor.

But, here's a fun fact: June 27th is National Onion Day, which means now is the perfect time to give the bulb the attention it deserves. To help you out in this quest, we rounded up our five favorite onion recipes, which are all worth the pungent breath. And if you're wondering, yes, onion tastes even better when it doesn't play second fiddle to other vegetables. #JustSaying

1. Creamy Onion Gratin

When most people think of gratin, they think of potatoes. But, contrary to popular belief, potatoes aren't the only vegetable that dominates the gratin game. The following recipe proves that onions can be just as tasty, especially if they're paired with blue cheese and a creamy bechamel sauce.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried onions
½ cup Blue cheese, grated
1 cup milk
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup olive oil
⅓ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Add the olive oil to a skillet and heat over medium heat. Sautee the dehydrated onions until they turn golden brown. Set aside.
Melt the butter in a large pan and whisk in the flour little by little. Then, add the milk and season with the paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a while until the sauce thickens and add the blue cheese.
Preheat the oven to 400^oF. Then, spread the sautéed onions on a baking dish and coat them with the bechamel. Bake for about half an hour or until the creams is golden brown.

2. Three Onion Soup

If you think you have to go to a fancy restaurant to enjoy a bowl of hearty three-onion soup, well, we have some good news for you! Our brand new soup mix tastes exactly like something you'd eat at Chez This-or-That and takes less than 15 minutes to make. Oh, and one more thing: Onions are just one of the superfoods we chose to include in this blend. Healing ingredients like leeks, carrot, chives, and celery also make a cameo and add a nutrient boost to the mix.

Ingredients:

½ cup three onion soup mix
2 cups stock (beef, chicken, or vegetable)

Directions:

Add the stock to a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Then, stir in the soup mix and cook for 8 minutes.
Serve with croutons or a slice of bread.

3. Onion & Bacon Bialys

Often compared to bagels, bialys are small, round rolls usually stuffed with onions and poppy seeds. The following twist, however, is a step-up from the usual recipe as it contains bacon, which highlights onion's flavor and makes the treat even crunchier.

Ingredients:

1 cup of warm water
2 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp dry yeast
1 tsp salt
½ cup dried onions
1/3 cup bacon, finely chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp poppy seeds (optional)
3 tbsp Gouda cheese (optional)

Directions:

Pour one cup of lukewarm water to a bowl and add the onions. Let them hydrate for 15 minutes. Then, squeeze away any excess liquid and set them aside.
Place one cup of warm water and the yeast in another bowl, and let it stand for a while until it gets foamy. Stir in the flour and the salt until you form a dough. Cover with a towel and let it rest for a couple of hours until it doubles in size.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet and sauté the onions and the bacon. At this point, you can also add the poppy seeds (if you're using any). Set aside.
Divide the dough into pieces, shape them into balls, and create a small indent in the middle. Fill each "hole" with the onion-bacon mixture and top with grated cheese (optional).
Preheat the oven to 450^oF and bake the bialys for 15 minutes or until they are puff and golden.

4. Cheesy Onion Pie

Combining cheese's ooze with onion's tang, this creative recipe is impossible to ignore. The crunchy crust also compliments the filling's melt-in-your-mouth texture. And despite its fancy looks, this uber-treat takes just an hour to make, which is practically nothing in pie time.

Ingredients:

For the Filling
4 cups dried onions
¼ cup unsalted butter
3 cups Swiss cheese, grated
3 tbsp Greek yogurt
2 eggs
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Crust
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ cup milk
1 cup unsalted butter
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions:

For the Filling
Melt the butter in a saucepan, sauté the onions for 4 minutes, and season with salt and pepper. Then, pour ½ cup water and cook for six more minutes until the onions are tender. Set aside.
Once cool, add the cheese, Greek yogurt, and eggs, and stir until they're evenly combined.

For the Crust
In a bowl, add the flour and the salt. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a skillet over low heat, slowly stir in the milk, and bring to a simmer. Then, pour the milk into the flour bowl and mix well.

For Assembling the Pie
Preheat the oven to 375^oF.
Divide the dough into two pieces. Roll each piece out until you form two layers of crust. Place one of the crusts onto a baking pan.
Scrape the filling onto the crust and spread it across evenly. Top with the second crust and pinch the seams where the two crusts "meet."
Brush the top side with the egg wash, and using a knife, create three "vent holes."
Bake for about an hour or until the crust is golden brown.

5. Pineapple Onion Salsa

Sweet, tangy, and refreshing, this salsa recipe is the definition of thinking outside the box. The pineapple's sweetness cuts through the onion's sharpness, and the two create a flavor combo that's hard to ignore.

Ingredients:

¾ cup freeze dried pineapples
¼ cup dried onions
¼ freeze dried red bell peppers
3 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
½ tsp lime zest
3 tbsp lime juice
½ tsp salt

Directions:

In a large bowl, add the pineapple, onion, and bell peppers. Pour 3 cups of lukewarm water and let them soak for 15 minutes. Then, remove from the bowl and squeeze away excess liquid.
Transfer them to a bowl and stir in the rest of the ingredients. Mix well and serve with chips.

How will you celebrate National Onion Day? Let us know in the comments below!

References:

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1. Spinach And Watermelon Salad²

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2. Blueberry and Banana Smoothie⁴

3. Blueberry Ice Pops³

4. Blueberry Muffins⁵