Pomegranates 101

• Pomegranates are picked when ripe so when they reach the stores, they’re ready to enjoy.
• The heavier the fruit is, the juicier it will be.
• Whole pomegranates keep well at room temperature for several days, away from direct sun. You can also store them up to 3 months refrigerated in plastic bags.
• The arils (the juice sac containing the seed) can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Freeze in single layers on trays, then up to 6 months in airtight containers.

If you’re wondering how to open this unique fruit, here is one way to get to the arils …

1. Cut off the crown then cut into sections.
2. Place the sections in a bowl of water- this helps avoiding being stained by the juice. Then roll out the arils with your fingers. The seeds will fall to the bottom and the pith will float to the top. Discard everything but the arils.
3. Strain out the water. Enjoy the arils whole (seed and juice).

What can you do with these brilliant red seeds?
Enjoy the arils by themselves, as a snack, or try sprinkling over salads, fruit desserts, cakes or puddings. You can also use in marinades, yogurt dip, glazes and for garnish. Pomegranate arils can be added to your favorite cocktail or tossed on waffles, oatmeal, pancakes, yogurt, cereal, or sundaes. Using this festive fruit during the winter holidays is one more way to get more fruits into your day, remember more matters!