Pomegranate: Antioxidant Action

A Pomegranate Recipe

Seeds from 1 pomegranate (about 3/4 cup)
1 white grapefruit, peeled and segmented
2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
1/4 cup pomegranate juice, such as Pom
1/4 cup diet (or regular) ginger ale

In a small bowl, gently toss together the pomegranate seeds with the grapefruit and orange segments. Evenly divide among four small wine or parfait glasses. Sprinkle each with the pomegranate juice and ginger ale. Makes 4 servings. Nutritional information per serving: 90 calories, 2 g protein, 23 g carbohydrate, 0 g fat, 3 g fiber.

Between September and January, look for bright-colored, blemish-free pomegranates that feel heavy for their size. This indicates a lot of seeds -- the fruit's main attraction. If it sounds like a hollow drum when tapped, it's ripe; cracked skin means it's overripe. Store pomegranates for up to three weeks at room temperature or a month in the refrigerator. Although they taste better when they're fresh, the seeds can be frozen for up to three months. Also use them for garnishing guacamole or cheese dips.

Originally published in Fitness magazine, January 2006.