Blueberries are in season right now in our local Bay Area farmers markets. In addition to tasting great, I’ve read that blueberries may actually reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as alzheimers and dementia. Also, according to blueberrycouncil.org, blueberries contain high levels of antioxidants that help fight cancer and heart disease.
Some of the best blueberries that I’ve found in the local markets are grown in the San Joaquin Valley at Sorensen’s Triple Delight Blueberry Farm. You can find Triple Delight Blueberries in a number of Bay Area farmers markets, including San Francisco Ferry Plaza Farmers Market and Marin Farmers market.
Blueberries have a very short season – about six weeks here – so I go a little overboard with them. Luckily, blueberries can be stored for a few days in a covered container in the refrigerator. But don’t wash them before storing them, as this can cause them to mold more quickly. Blueberries freeze pretty well, too. The frozen ones are a real treat when the fresh ones are gone for the season.
Oh, and I forgot to mention that one cup of blueberries has only 80 calories. So eat them without any guilt.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy blueberries is to mix them with Greek-style yogurt and homemade granola, then drizzle them with a little local honey. This treat is great for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or for dessert.
As I mentioned, the season for blueberries is short, though – get plenty of them while you can!