United Flavors of America – Kentucky’s Blackberries

Kentucky’s Blackberries

It’s worth wrestling the thorny thicket of a Blackberry bush when the reward is its succulent fruit that’s both sweet and tangy. With its clumps – actually called drupelets – of individual tiny berries, Blackberries abound with fiber and pectin, and of course, vitamins and nutrients. Antioxidants like anthocyanins ­– which give it the deep purple shade – protect the body from free radicals that harm cells and lead to cancer. Just 1 cup of Kentucky’s finest Blackberries offer a daily dose of Vitamin C – another powerful antioxidant – that protects against cancer, improves the cardiovascular system, and makes skin and eyes healthy. Eaten fresh, frozen or canned, Blackberries add amazing flavor and texture to morning cereals or blended in smoothies. You can even enjoy them as a juicy addition to a savory salad.

Enjoy this bountiful blackberry kale salad

1 pint fresh blackberries

3 cups chopped kale

6 ounces feta cheese

1 pint halved cherry tomatoes

1 chopped green onion

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp rice vinegar

In a large bowl, mix blackberries, kale, tomatoes, feta cheese and green onion. Splash with vinegar and olive oil. Lightly toss. Consider topping it with 4 ounces of seared salmon to make a complete – yet light – dinner.

Source

http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/8-health-benefits-of-blackberries.html