Grapes have always been associated with health, and with good reason.  They are packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients.  One of their renowned phytonutrients, resveratrol, is said to increase the expression of three genes related to longevity. Even though they’re sweet, grapes are also good for diabetics, since they promote a better blood sugar balance and increased insulin sensitivity. And of course the skin is packed with fiber, which helps to promote good bowel health.

 

At this time of year, the local grapes are particularly fresh and delicious, so it’s a great time to enjoy them. Their unique texture and sweetness makes them a perfect addition to salads and desserts, but also a handy snack throughout the day.  Just wash them and put them in a bowl in the fridge to keep them fresh and ready for whenever a hunger pang strikes.

Recipes (see below):

Minted Green Grape Sorbet

Green Goddess Breakfast Smoothie

The following recipe is from our Veg-Feasting Cookbook

Minted Green Grape Sorbet

Serves 4

This refreshing sorbet tastes like frozen lemon-and-limeade. The amount of sugar can be adjusted to suit your taste and the sweetness of the grapes. The sorbet can be stored in the freezer for several days. If it becomes rock hard, you can soften it carefully in a microwave, provided that you stored it in a microwave safe container.

2 cups seedless green grapes

1/3 cup packed fresh mint leaves

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/3 – ½ cup natural granulated sugar (like Sucanat)

Pinch of salt

Put all the ingredients in the work bowl of a food processor and pulse several times to blend completely. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if necessary. Pour the mixture into a small metal bowl and place in the freezer. (Don’t clean the food processor work bowl.) Freeze the mixture completely, about 3 hours. Return the frozen mixture to the food processor and process until smooth and pale green in color. Serve immediately or refreeze in a covered container.

 

The following recipe is from www.nutritionmd.org reprinted with permission.

Green Goddess Breakfast Smoothie

Makes 5 1-cup servings

1 orange, peeled
1 cup grapes
1 banana
1 pear, cored
1 cup soy, almond, or rice milk
2 cups fresh kale or spinach
ice cubes (optional)
Place all ingredients in the blender for 1 minute, or until desired smoothness is achieved.  Add ice cubes, if using, and process further to desired temperature.