September is the perfect month for raspberries to be harvested in Ontario as the cool weather starts to roll in! Raspberries are unique with their sweet yet tart flavour – once you start eating one, you just can’t stop!
As your picking your raspberries this season, it’s important to remember the following health benefits that these yummy fruits can provide to you:
Raspberries are high in antioxidants – like many other berries, raspberries contain a high amount of antioxidants, such as anthocyanins. These flavonoids can be helpful in lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation throughout the body, and improving memory and brain health. They are also high in vitamin C, which is great for UV protection in skin, fighting cancer, and more.
They can help manage diabetes – raspberries are high in fiber, which helps stabilize insulin and blood sugar levels, reducing symptoms of diabetes.
Try these fantastic raspberry recipes this Fall:
FALL SALAD:
In a bowl, add 1 handful of organic spinach, 1 handful of organic arugula, ¼ C chopped walnuts, goat cheese to taste, 1 handful of organic raspberries, 1 pinch of sea salt, ¼ C organic pumpkin seeds, balsamic vinaigrette to taste, and enjoy as a side to any dish!
RASPBERRY JAM:
In a pot on medium-high heat, add 2 C frozen raspberries, ¼ C water, 2 tbsp. honey, and cook until easy to mash. Once mixed, set aside to cool. Then mix in ¼ C chia seeds and add to a mason jar. Set in fridge overnight and enjoy in the morning with your toast!
LEMON RASPBERRY OAT PANCAKES:
In a food processor, blend 1 C of organic rolled oats until a flour like texture is created. Then, add ½ C of Greek (or coconut) plain yogurt, 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract, 1 tsp. baking powder, 1 tsp. baking soda, 2 tsp. organic maple syrup, zest and juice of half a small organic lemon, 1/3 C organic nut milk of your choice, and blend until a thick, smooth mixture is made. In a separate bowl, whisk 1 egg white until light peaks form. Fold this into your pancake mixture, along with halved organic raspberries.
In a pan on medium heat, add 2 large spoonfuls of your mixture and cook for 3-4 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Serve with organic maple syrup and enjoy!
