Pomegranate: How to Select, Store, and Serve
Feb 19, 2016, Updated Jun 07, 2021
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Pomegranates are a nutrient-dense, full flavored food
Pomegranates are nutrient-dense and are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, copper, and folate. Furthermore, pomegranates are rich in antioxidants. Oh, and did we mention they are sweet, tart, and bursting with flavor?
Pomegranates, a gift from the gods
According to Greek mythology, the goddess of love herself, Aphrodite, was the first to plant a pomegranate tree. It’s no wonder pomegranates are often used in literature as a romantic symbol! Give pomegranates a try—we think you’ll fall in love with this delectable fruit!
How to Select
- Choose pomegranates that are heavy for their size. This indicates a juicy pomegranate!
- Pomegranates range from red to reddish-brown. The color doesn’t matter much, just look for one that has a deep tone.
- Most grocery stores sell pomegranate arils that have already been scooped out. If you don’t want to seed a pomegranate yourself, this is the way to go. Choose arils that are stored in an air-tight container.
How to Store
- Store whole pomegranates in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator for up to a month.
- Store arils in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Frozen arils can be stored in the freezer for several months. To freeze, line a baking sheet with wax paper and spread arils out in a single layer. Place the baking sheet of arils in the freezer until frozen (about two hours). Transfer arils into a freezer bag and store in the freezer.
How to Serve
- Pomegranates contain hundreds of seeds, called arils. These seeds and the translucent flesh around them are edible. Arils are delicious raw, juiced, or put into salads, smoothies, yogurt, cereal and more. To open a pomegranate and remove the arils, follow these 4 simple steps.
Here are some pomegranate recipes we think you’ll love:
Pomegranate Sauce
This elegant sweet and savory pomegranate sauce is great for dressing up pork, seafood or poultry. Get the recipe from North Bay Produce here.
Pomegranate Hearts
Pomegranate Hearts are a fun after school snack or party food. They’re a must-serve on Valentine’s Day! Get the recipe here.
Cranberry Smoothie Bowl with Pomegranate Arils
Start your day with a vitamin-packed & antioxidant-rich smoothie bowl featuring cranberries, mandarin orange slices, and pomegranate seeds. Get the recipe here.
Pomegranate Tart with Lemon Cream
This Pomegranate Tart comes together in a snap and is full of flavor. It’s a dessert favorite! Get the recipe from North Bay Produce here.
For even more pomegranate recipes, be sure to follow my Pomegranate Pinterest Board!
What is your favorite way to enjoy pomegranate? Share in the comments below.
