Grapes

LATE SUMMER/FALL FRUIT

Description:

Grapes are a small round fruit that grows in clusters. There are several varieties including, green, red and blue or blue-black. They can be seeded or seedless.

Red: a sweet variety that has a more earthy flavor. The most popular are the Red Globe and the Flame Seedless.

Blue-Black: a variety with a richer flavor that is sweet-tart. Concord and Zinfandel are a part of this variety.




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Selecting:

When selecting, no matter the variety or color, choose fruit that is plump, fragrant and bright and richly colored. The fruit should be firmly attached to fresh looking and pliable stems.

Avoid fruit that is soft, wrinkled, moldy or wet (leaking). Also avoid brown colored fruit and be sure to check near the stem for freshness (this is where grapes begin to deteriorate first).

Storing and Handling:

Store fruit in the refrigerator in a sealed plastic bag. Depending on the freshness of the fruit, they can be stored for up to one week.

Preparing:

Wash thoroughly under cool running water and shake to remove excess water.

Raw: wash and enjoy.


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Serving Suggestions:

Fruit and Cheese Dish: This fruit goes well with cheese. Simply serve washed fruit with your favorite sliced or cubed cheese. They can even be put on skewers with the cheese for a simple and quick appetizer.

Easy Snack Idea: Simply pop washed grapes in the freezer until frozen and you have a great snack anytime.

Pies, Jams and Juice: Concord grapes work well when making pies, jams or just for juicing.


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Seasonings and Foods to use: almonds, apples, cheese (blue, gorgonzola, goat), chicken, oranges, pears, pistachios, seafood, walnuts


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Quick Salad – Grape Recipes:

Chicken Salad with Grapes
Grape Salad Recipe