As the seasons change, one fruit stands out as a true MVP of flavor and nutrition: cherries! Sweet or tart, cherries add a burst of flavor to any dish. And with their impressive antioxidant profile, they’re a great way to boost your health without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking for breakfast inspiration, a quick snack, or a show-stopping dessert, we’ve got you covered with these 20 delicious cherry recipes that are healthy and nutritious.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of cherry-based cooking and baking, showcasing a variety of sweet and savory dishes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. From quinoa bowls to smoothies, salads, and even baked goods, we’ve curated a selection of recipes that highlight the best of cherries in all their forms.
Stay tuned for the next part of this article!
Cherry Almond Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast bowl that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with sweet cherries and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 1 tablespoon almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa and cherries.
2. In a small bowl, mix together almond butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the honey-almond mixture to the quinoa-cherry mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Sprinkle salt and sliced almonds on top of the bowl.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes cooking time for quinoa)
Healthy Cherry Chia Pudding
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this nutritious and delicious cherry chia pudding recipe. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s the perfect treat to fuel your day.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Whisk until well combined.
2. Add honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture. Stir until dissolved.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow chia seeds to gel.
4. Just before serving, stir in chopped dried cherries.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cherries if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Enjoy your healthy and tasty cherry chia pudding!
Cherry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of cherries with the earthy flavor of spinach, all tied together with a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and cherries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese and pecans on top (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Cherry Salsa
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with this refreshing grilled chicken dish paired with a fruity cherry salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cherry Salsa:
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine cherries, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey in a bowl. Stir to combine.
5. Serve the grilled chicken with the cherry salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Avocado Smoothie
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this refreshing Cherry Avocado Smoothie.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the avocado, cherries, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the desired texture is achieved.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cherry Oatmeal Energy Bites
Cherry Oatmeal Energy Bites Recipe
These bite-sized treats are packed with nutritious ingredients and a burst of cherry flavor, making them the perfect snack to keep you energized throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried cherries
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and dried cherries.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the oat and cherry mixture, stirring until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped dark chocolate chips.
5. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
6. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! These bite-sized treats are ready to eat straight from the mixing bowl.
Note: Store any leftover energy bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Enjoy!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cherries
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the natural tartness of cherries, creating a unique and delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cherries (such as Bing or Rainier)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, cherries, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Kale Stir-Fry
A vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the earthy taste of kale, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to release their juices.
5. Add the chopped kale and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted and tender (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cherry Coconut Yogurt Parfait
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the flavors of cherry and coconut with creamy yogurt, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup cherry jam or preserves
– 1/4 cup shredded dried coconut
– 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and cherry jam until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt-cherry mixture into a parfait glass or a tall clear cup.
3. Sprinkle half of the shredded coconut on top of the yogurt layer.
4. Add the fresh cherries on top of the coconut.
5. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining yogurt-cherry mixture, then the remaining coconut, and finally another layer of cherries.
6. If desired, drizzle a little honey over the top of the parfait for extra sweetness.
7. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Cherry Lentil Salad with Feta
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of cherries with the earthiness of lentils and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils (red or green)
– 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, chopped cherries, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 10 minutes (prep time)
– No cooking required
Cherry Walnut Kale Salad
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic kale salad, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of kale with the natural sweetness of cherries and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Massage the kale leaves with your hands for about 30 seconds to help soften the fibers.
3. In a large bowl, combine the massaged kale, cherries, and walnuts.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cherry Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry quinoa with the crunch of bell peppers, perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked cherry quinoa
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, black beans, cilantro, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cherry Chocolate Protein Bars
A delicious and healthy snack option that combines the natural sweetness of cherries with the richness of chocolate, all wrapped up in a protein-packed bar.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder (30g)
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×6-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, cherries, and peanut butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Add honey and protein powder; mix until a dough forms.
4. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Spread evenly over the oat mixture.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is no-bake!
Cherry Gazpacho Soup
A refreshing summer soup that combines the sweetness of cherries with the smokiness of gazpacho, perfect for a light and revitalizing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cherries, tomatoes, red bell pepper, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Cherry and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
A vibrant and nutritious bowl filled with the sweetness of cherries, the creaminess of chickpeas, and the crunch of fresh veggies. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry halves
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chickpeas, mixed greens, cherry halves, and red bell pepper.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cilantro.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and toss gently.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cherry Berry Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a boost of energy and flavor from this delicious and nutritious Cherry Berry Smoothie Bowl recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup frozen cherries
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen berries, frozen cherries, sliced banana, and chia seeds.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and almond milk, and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with additional frozen berries, sliced banana, or granola for added crunch.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Cherry Avocado Toast with Pumpkin Seeds
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and savory toast recipe, featuring fresh cherries, creamy avocado, and crunchy pumpkin seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (toasted)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup pitted cherries, halved
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Arrange the cherry halves on top of the avocado.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Top with pumpkin seeds and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cherry Basil Infused Water
Elevate your hydration with this refreshing twist on traditional infused water. This recipe combines the sweetness of cherries and the subtlety of basil for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (4 cups) water
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the water and cherries.
2. Add the fresh basil leaves to the pitcher.
3. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth before serving, if desired.
6. Serve chilled, with ice cubes added if preferred.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your refreshing glass of Cherry Basil Infused Water!
Cherry Glazed Salmon with Asparagus
A sweet and savory twist on traditional salmon, this recipe combines the rich flavor of cherry glaze with the tender crispness of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cherry preserves and honey until smooth.
4. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the cherry glaze evenly over the salmon, leaving a 1-inch border around each fillet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
7. Place asparagus alongside the salmon on the baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cherry and Almond Butter Stuffed Dates
Sweet and Savory Cherry and Almond Butter Stuffed Dates
Elevate your snack game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the richness of almond butter and cherry compote.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted Medjool dates
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 2 tablespoons cherry compote (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chopped almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together almond butter, cherry compote, and honey until well combined.
3. Stuff each date with about 1 tablespoon of the almond butter-cherry mixture.
4. Place stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle salt over the dates (optional).
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the dates are slightly caramelized and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: You can adjust the amount of cherry compote to your taste, depending on how strong you like the flavor.
Summary
Discover the delicious and nutritious world of cherry recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes showcases the versatility of cherries in both sweet and savory dishes. From breakfast bowls to desserts, these healthy recipes feature cherries paired with quinoa, spinach, chicken, avocado, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, this article has something for everyone. Get inspired by the variety of cherry-based recipes and start cooking up a storm today!
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