Northwest Cherries

Why limit cherries to desserts? They're known to be a delicious summer snack, but they're a lot healthier than we give them credit for -- so why not try them out in salads and savory dishes too? Not only are they high in fiber, low in calories and low on the glycemic index, but they also help ward off Alzheimer's Disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, inflammation, hypertension and stroke. Not to mention they're a good source of melatonin, which promotes healthy sleep patterns (and even helps to reduce jet lag!).

We all know cherries taste incredible, but do you even know where they come from? Two-thirds of our nation's cherries are grown in Washington state, which has an ideal microclimate and rich volcanic soil. The region is known for producing exceptionally large and sweet cherries because Washington's climate allows for an extended hang time on the tree, which is where cherries accumulate their sugar.

There are seven major varieties of cherries grown in the northwest, but most of the cherries we eat commercially in the U.S. are of the bing variety -- these are firm, juicy and deep red in color. The yellow-and-red- variety are called Rainiers, which parents have come to love for their pale yellow juices (just think how many stains you can prevent on your kids' clothes!).

Whichever kind of cherries you favor, just make sure you pop them in the refrigerator as soon as you get home, because cherries age approximately 24 times faster at room temperature than they do when they're chilled. They'll stay fresh for up to a few weeks in your fridge.

For more information, check out nwcherries.com
All recipes below courtesy of Northwest Cherries

Also check out: 10 Sweet Cherry Desserts

Click Through for Savory Cherry Recipes

Savory Cherry Recipes