Celebrate National Cranberry Month with 3 Tasty Recipes

Did you know that cranberries are one of the only fruits native to North America? Cranberries are indigenous to five states in America and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. From juices to sauces, there is no wrong way to celebrate National Cranberry Month this October.

Cranberries are not only delicious, but they are also healthy and nutritious. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, as well as other natural compounds that your body utilizes to function properly. These properties give cranberries protective properties your body uses to help fight infections and disease.

Due to their sour taste, cranberries are often incorporated into dishes rather than eaten alone. You are probably familiar with traditional Thanksgiving cranberry sauce, however there are many ways to eat this tart fruit.

5 Beneficial Properties in Cranberries

The vitamins and minerals in cranberries help the body in numerous ways. You are probably familiar with the role of cranberries in fighting urinary tract infections, but this wonder fruit has other health benefits too. Here are 5 healthy properties in cranberries:

1. Vitamin C: With 7.7 mg of Vitamin C per ½ cup, cranberries are considered a good source of this antioxidant. Antioxidants can block some damage that is caused by free radicals and can boost the immune system.

2. Fiber: Cranberries are full of fiber which is associated with lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Fiber also promotes satiety and can help manage blood glucose levels.

3. Polyphenols: This micronutrient found in cranberries has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. It is theorized that this is through lower blood pressure and improving HDL, good cholesterol, levels.

4. Proanthocyanin: This compound is another antioxidant found in cranberries which can help prevent the adhesion of certain bacteria to the urinary tract wall. This can help prevent infections.

5. Vitamin E: This fat-soluble vitamin can help with immune function and prevent damage caused by free radicals associated with heart disease and certain cancers.

5 Tasty Recipes with Cranberries

Although cranberries are tart, and typically not eaten alone, there are many dishes that incorporate this fruit’s unique flavor to make a delish meal. Here are 5 of my favorite recipes utilizing cranberries:

1. Apple, Cranberry, and Walnut Salad. This appetizer traditionally uses dried cranberries that complement the sweetness from the apple.

2. Cranberry Apple Crumble. End your meal with a sweet treat that is gluten-free and dairy-free. A tasty dessert that almost everyone can enjoy!

3. Cranberry Apple Butter. This butter is delicious and makes the perfect spread for dinner rolls or breakfast scones.

4. Pumpkin Spice Cranberry Muffins. The perfect breakfast for fall, it will keep you satisfied and energized all morning long.

5. Cranberry, Pecan, and Goat Cheese Sweet Potato Bites. This tasty aperitif is perfect for parties as its bite sized and delicious.

There is no wrong way to celebrate National Cranberry Month! Try one of these tasty recipes or come up with something of your own design.

There are many wonderful resources available to assist you in finding the perfect vegetable-based recipe, such as my most recent cookbook, Enjoying Food Peace: Recipes and Intuitive Eating Wisdom to Nourish Your Body and Mind, which you can purchase here if you haven’t already.

Your Turn to Take Action: What’s your favorite way to eat cranberries? Let me know in the comments below.

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