Cranberry time

It's cranberry season! I always look forward to seeing the bags of fresh cranberries show up in the supermarket produce section this time of year because I love making cranberry-nut bread! Cranberries are not only delicious, but they are nutritious too. Cranberries are probably best known for their role in the prevention of urinary tract infections (due to their antibacterial properties), but they are bursting with other nutrients as well. They are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, manganese, and vitamin K. Cranberries are also full of antioxidant phytochemicals which are thought to help with the prevention of chronic diseases such as heart disease.

Cranberries are usually only available in the store from October through December, so be sure to buy some soon. Fortunately, they do freeze well and can be stored in the freezer for use later on in the year.

Here is one of my kid's favorite cranberry recipes, the creamy yogurt adds a nice sweetness to downplay the tartness of the berries.


Cranberry Waldorf Salad

Makes 16 servings. Each serving is creditable for 1/4 cup of the fruit/vegetable component at lunch or supper for 3-5 year old children.

You will need:
1 1/2 cups chopped cranberries
1 cup chopped red apple (leave the peel on)
1 cup seedless green grapes, halved
1/2 cup raisins*
1/4 cup chopped walnuts*
1 1/2 Tablespoons sugar
8 ounces lowfat vanilla yogurt

1. Combine all ingredients, toss to coat.
2. Cover and chill 2 hours. Stir before serving.

*can be a choking hazard.