Pomegranates

Pomegranates are a fruit about the size of a large orange with a thin leathery skin or rind that is typically yellow overlaid with a light or deep pink or rich red. The interior is separated by bitter cream-colored membranes backed with hundreds of seeds. The tiny edible seeds are surrounded by a translucent, bright-red pulp that has a sweet-tart flavor. The juicy, sweet seeds are eaten on their own, used as a garnish, or squeezed to yield a juice. 

The peak season is October -November. Choose fruit with a bright color and blemish-free skin. The ripe fruit makes a metallic sound when tapped. The fruits improve in storage, becoming juicier and more flavorful. Refrigerate for up to 2 months or store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 month.

Pomegranates offer several health benefits which include: help keep teeth clean, regulate cholesterol, prevent arthritis, provide skin with potent antioxidants and a great source of fiber. 

Pomegranate Salad

Cook's notes: Pomegranate vinaigrette dressing pairs well with a spinach salad. Another dressing option is a prepared one from Lighthouse called Pomegranate Blueberry.
Dressing Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 2 TB. white wine vinegar
• 2 TB. olive oil
• 1 TB. honey
• 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
• season with salt and pepper

Dressing Directions:
Place all ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth
Salad Ingredients:

• spinach leaves with stems removed
• pomegranate seeds
• avocado slices
• sunflower seeds or walnut pieces
• dried cranberries or Granny apple slices
• feta or goat cheese

Pomegranate Martini

 Cook's notes: This recipe was in the O Magazine posted by Rachel Ray
Ingredients:

• 1-1/2 cups pomegranate juice
• 2 oz. Absolute Citron vodka or white tequila
• 1 oz. Cointreau liquor
• cup of ice
• splash of sparkling water
• squeeze of a lemon
• pomegranate seeds

Directions:

• Shake ingredients in a shaker and pour into a chilled martini glass
• Garnish with pomegranate fruit in the glass

Pomegranate Bellinis

Cook's notes:This recipe was posted by Giada de Laurentiis

Ingredients Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar

Directions Simple Syrup:

• In a saucepan combine water with sugar over medium heat bring to boil;reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir until sugar is dissolved. 
• Remove pan from heat and allow syrup to cool.

Ingredients for Bellinis:

• 1 cup ice
• 1-1/2 cups simple syrup
• 1-1/4 cups chilled pomegranate juice
• 1 cup cranberry juice
• 1 bottle chilled Prosecco
• 2 limes thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds for garnish

Directions:
Make Bellini mixture in a large pitcher. Pour into glasses and garnish with pomegranate seeds