Healthy Pomegranate Recipes

How to prepare a pomegranate

Pomegranates are large, orange-red fruits with a leathery skin. The prize inside, the hundreds of pulp-covered seeds inside are the pomeganate, is the delicious, nutritious part. Known throughout Asia and the Mediterranean, pomegranates are becoming increasingly popular in America as well. In the US they are available fresh at supermarkets in October and November. Pomegranate juice is also available any time of the year.

When choosing a pomegranate, pick one heavy in weight for its size. Pomegranates will keep for up to 2 months in the refrigerator or in a cool, dry place for about a month.

To prepare the pomegranate, cut it in half and scoop out the pulpy seeds, removing the whitish membrane that may stick to them.

The seeds can then be used in recipes, made into juice or eaten raw. The sweetness depends on the ripeness of the pomegranate.

Recipes for Pomegranates

Pomegranate Vinegar

Ingredients

1 cup pomegranate seeds

2 cups white wine vinegar

Recipe Directions

Put the pomegranate seeds in a dry sterilized jar and cover with the white wine vinegar. Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid. Place this in full sunlight (a sunny window works well). Let the mixture stand 8 to 10 days or until desired strength is achieved.

Line a colander or strainer with cheesecloth and set over a bowl. Drain the vinegar from pomegranate seeds. Pour into dry, clean bottles. Seal and then store the bottles in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

Use in salad dressings and marinades.

Yield: 2 cups

Pomegranate Dressing

1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/4 cup pomegranate juice

1/4 cup lemon juice

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt to taste

Freshly ground black pepper

In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, pomegranate juice and lemon juice. Slowly whisk in the olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste then serve with green salads and grilled meats, especially lamb.

Store this dressing in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Size: 1 tablespoon

Yield 12 servings

Pomegranate Punch

1/2 cup pomegranate juice

1/2 cup orange juice (the freshly squeezed type, if available)

1/2 cup diet grapefruit juice soda (or diet 7 UP)

Combine all ingredients in a pitcher, add ice and serve.

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