Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 4 ounces pomegranate juice
• 2 ounces vodka
• 2 ounces cranberry juice
• 1 ounce lime juice
• 1 ounce grenadine syrup
• Lime slice, optional

Ingredients

• 2 ounces vodka
• 2 ounces pomegranate juice
• 1/2 ounce Cointreau
• 1/2 ounce lemon juice
• Lemon slice, optional

Ingredients

• 1 lime wedge
• Kosher salt, optional
• Ice cubes
• 2 ounces blanco tequila
• 1-1/2 ounces lime juice
• 1 ounce orange juice
• 1/4 ounce simple syrup or agave nectar

Ingredients

• 1 bottle white wine (such as sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio)
• 2-1/2 cups apple cider
• 2 Honeycrisp apples, chopped
• 2/3 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)
• 1 can (12 ounces) ginger beer, chilled

Ingredients

• 1 lime wedge
• Coarse sea salt, optional
• Ice cubes
• 2 ounces blanco tequila
• 1 ounce triple sec
• 1 ounce pomegranate juice
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• 1/4 ounce simple syrup
• Pomegranate seeds, optional

Can You Actually Eat Pomegranate Seeds?

Yes! You can eat those ruby red seeds known as arils. Pomegranate seeds make up about half the weight of a pomegranate. The seeds are hard and fibrous and are surrounded by a sweet, juicy covering called an aril. Each pomegranate contains about 600 arils.

Arils make a delicious topping for a variety of dishes from breakfasts like yogurt parfaits and oatmeal to dinners like salads and couscous. Toss a few on your favorite dessert or cocktail as well. Start with a few of our favorite pomegranate recipes.

When buying a pomegranate, inspect it carefully to make sure it’s ripe. A good pomegranate looks plump and round. It should feel heavy when you pick it up and free of any cuts or bruises.

Are Pomegranate Seeds Good for You?

Yes, pomegranate seeds are good for you. They are loaded with nutrients with serious health benefits. Pomegranate seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamin E and magnesium. They are also a great source of antioxidants and polyunsaturated fat.

Pomegranate seeds are rich in fiber, especially insoluble fiber. This is the type that passes through the digestive system without being absorbed.

More research is needed but some studies have begun to find significant health benefits from pomegranate seeds. Consuming these arils has been linked to a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels and lower inflammation levels in the brain.

On top of the health benefits, these gorgeous red seeds might even have beauty benefits, too.

While pomegranate seeds are safe to eat, consuming a large amount can lead to gastrointestinal problems. A rare side effect of eating an excessive number of pomegranate seeds is an intestinal blockage. People with chronic constipation are at a slightly higher risk of this.

How to Open a Pomegranate

Perhaps the most intimidating aspect of pomegranates is how to cut them open. There are several techniques out there, and many of them will leave you with pomegranate juice and seeds all over your kitchen counter.

Our favorite technique is simple, quick, and most importantly, easy to clean up. Start by placing your pomegranate on a cutting board and grab a sharp knife. Firmly hold the pomegranate on its side and slice off the top.

Once you remove the top, you’ll see that the fruit is divided into sections. Using your knife, score along each section without cutting all the way through.

Fill a large bowl with cool water and gently pull apart the sections of the pomegranate over the bowl. Place the pieces into the bowl of water.

Using your hands, rub the arils with your thumbs to remove them from the fruit. You’ll notice that the seeds sink to the bottom of the bowl while the pieces of membrane float to the top. This is a quick way to deseed a pomegranate.

Throw out the white membrane, then strain the water to remove the smaller pieces. You’ll be left with those tangy ruby red seeds that are ready to be enjoyed. Here’s how to eat a pomegranate!

It’s important to note that pomegranate juice (and seeds) can stain your clothing or a kitchen towel, so take extra care not to spill. Now you’re ready to go forth with your new pomegranate knowledge (and this insanely good White Chocolate Mousse with Pomegranate Sauce).

The post Can You Eat Pomegranate Seeds? appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Ingredients

• 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup baking cocoa
• 3/4 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
• 2 cups (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds

Ingredients

• 3 cups cubed peeled butternut squash (1/2-inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 small onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed
• 1/2 cup salted soy nuts
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1/3 cup pomegranate molasses
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon rose water
• POMEGRANATE SYRUP:
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
• Dash crushed red pepper flakes
• 8 bone-in beef short ribs (about 4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons safflower oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1-1/2 cups dry red wine or pomegranate juice
• 1-1/2 cups chicken or beef stock
• 1/3 cup pomegranate molasses
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce, optional
• Minced fresh parsley and pomegranate seeds

Improve Memory

Pomegranate juice is rich in polyphenols, which have been found to improve memory function. In one study, individuals drinking pomegranate juice daily performed better on memory tests compared to those who used a placebo drink. So if you’re feeling a little forgetful these days, add a cup of pomegranate juice to your morning routine, or blend up one of these simple smoothies.

Reduce Blood Pressure and Combat Heart Disease

According to a recent study, drinking as little as two ounces of pomegranate juice daily has shown to lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol and cleanse plaque from arteries—all good news for your heart. The study goes on to suggest that pomegranate juice may be “prudent” to add to a heart-healthy diet. And delicious.

Hydrate Skin

According to dermatologists, pomegranate juice can help replenish dry, dull skin. It is also a great source of vitamin C, which, when applied topically, can improve skin’s texture and brightness. Try this DIY pomegranate scrub when your skin needs a little pick-me-up. Using a blender or food processor combine 3 tablespoons of pomegranate seeds, 1 cup of cooked oatmeal, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin organic olive oil and 1 tablespoon of raw honey. Apply to your face, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Add these other skin-soothing foods to your diet for an extra healthy glow.

Prevent and Fight Cancer

Studies have suggested that pomegranates can prevent certain types of cancer and may even fight cancer at different stages. The anti-inflammatory properties and rich polyphenol content protect DNA from mutations, inhibit cancer cell growth, and help prevent cancer from spreading. More studies are needed, but research shows that pomegranates can help combat prostate, breast, colon, and lung cancer. Who knew this little red fruit could be so powerful?

Find everything you need for healthy eating at home here.

Encourage Hair Growth

Wishing for long shiny locks? The pomegranate is packed with antioxidants that make hair follicles stronger, and improve blood circulation in the scalp—factors which help to stimulate hair growth. To start your day with a dose of hair health, make this pomegranate breakfast smoothie.

Relieve Rheumatoid Arthritis

Joint pain from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can be a debilitating symptom to endure. Pomegranate to the rescue once again! Due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, the pomegranate can decrease joint tenderness, swelling, and pain. And some studies suggest that pomegranate extract may block production of an enzyme that worsens arthritis by destroying cartilage.

Try adding a little spice to your life to help reduce inflammation.

Promote Bone Health

Instead of milk, got pomegranate? This 2013 study found that pomegranate can be used to reduce bone loss in animals with osteoporosis. It’s all thanks, once again, to the pomegranate’s powerful antioxidants. So give your bones a boost and sprinkle some pomegranate seeds on a salad or a bowl of yogurt. Yum.

Keep You Feeling Full

Eating food rich in fiber slows digestion, which helps to keep you feeling full. And the more full you are on healthy fiber-rich foods like pomegranate, the less junk you’re likely to eat. There are about 4g fiber per 3/4 cup of pomegranate seeds—so eat up!

Fight Acne

Antioxidants help to fight acne by warding off inflammation that can lead to breakouts. So it’s the antioxidant-rich pomegranate to the rescue once again! When snack time hits, put aside the bag of chips, and reach for a bowl of crunchy and juicy pomegranate seeds instead.

The post 9 Unexpected Health Benefits of Pomegranate appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated tangerine zest
• 4 tangerines, peeled and sectioned
• 2 medium kiwifruit, peeled, halved and sliced
• 1 medium apple, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1 large ripe banana, sliced
• 1 large pear, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1-1/2 cups cubed fresh pineapple
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 4 cups spring mix salad greens
• 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 3/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 3/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
• 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
• CRANBERRY VINAIGRETTE:
• 1/2 cup thawed cranberry juice concentrate
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• Dash salt

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon each ground cardamom, cinnamon and allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped cashews
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
• PARFAITS:
• 4 cups fat-free plain Greek yogurt
• 6 tablespoons honey, divided
• 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 3 cups chopped Honeycrisp apples (about 2 large)
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons minced fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 beef tenderloin roast (3 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• CHUTNEY:
• 1 pomegranate
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium tart apple, peeled and chopped
• 4 shallots, coarsely chopped
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh gingerroot
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 packages (5 ounces each) spring mix salad greens
• 4 cups cubed cooked turkey breast
• 2 medium pears, sliced
• 1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/2 cup honey-roasted sliced almonds

Ingredients

• 6 ounces white baking chocolate, coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup flaked coconut, toasted
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped

Ingredients

• 1 package (12 ounces) dark chocolate chips
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds, patted dry

Ingredients

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 skinned salmon fillet (about 2 pounds)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 medium navel orange, thinly sliced
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 2/3 cup sugar, divided
• 3/4 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1-1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1-1/2 teaspoons water
• 6 large egg yolks, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• TOPPING:
• 2-1/2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/3 cup pomegranate seeds

Ingredients

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• MUFFINS:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 cup 2% milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1-1/4 cups pomegranate seeds
• 2 teaspoons coarse sugar

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 2 ounces pomegranate juice
• 1 ounce vodka
• 1/2 ounce triple sec
• 1/2 ounce club soda
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• Pomegranate seeds
• Lemon zest strips, optional

Ingredients

• 1 package (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 medium navel orange, peeled and sectioned
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 to 3 teaspoons grated orange zest

Ingredients

• 1 package (6 ounces) fresh baby spinach
• 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat Swiss cheese
• 1/3 cup slivered almonds, toasted
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• DRESSING:
• 3 tablespoons canola oil
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 3/4 teaspoon poppy seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground mustard

Ingredients

• 36 slices French bread baguette (1/4 inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
• 2 ounces dark chocolate candy bar, grated

Ingredients

• 8 cups torn romaine
• 1 can (15 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• 2/3 cup canola or olive oil
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
• 6 tablespoons butter, cubed
• 2/3 cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

Ingredients

• 5 medium oranges or 10 clementines
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 to 2 teaspoons orange flower water or orange juice

Ingredients

• 1 bunch romaine, torn (about 8 cups)
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 large Granny Smith apple, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt