More Reasons to Love Cranberries

These red gems are in season for only a short while. Enjoy them while you can!
cranberries

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Red cranberries

Photo by: amanda kerr

amanda kerr

Thanksgiving may be over, but there are plenty of more reasons to enjoy these red gems while they're in season.

One cup of fresh cranberries provides close to 50 calories, is an excellent source of the antioxidant vitamin C (supplying 22% of the recommended daily amount) and a good source of fiber and manganese. The gorgeously hued berries also contain numerous flavonoids, including anthocyanins, which may play a role in fighting cancers of the breast, lung and colon.

How to Use Fresh Cranberries

These tart marble-size berries work well in baked goodies like muffins, scones, tarts and pies. They also make for a great sauce, chutney or salsa. The berries complement poultry and meat fantastically, especially when combined with sweeter fruit. Other ideas:

Bought too many fresh ones? Wrap loose cranberries in plastic wrap or store them in an unopened bag in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. They can also be frozen for up to 1 year. Do not rinse before storing.

Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian and consultant who specializes in food safety and culinary nutrition. See Toby's full bio »

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