Cherry season is short and sweet. Very sweet.To help you make the most of this fleeting season, Whole Foods Market is kicking off our fifth annual Cherryfest with a contest. We’re giving away a 5-lb box of plump, juicy cherries to five randomly selected winners who share what they would do with that many cherries. UPDATE: Thanks to everyone that entered. Congrats to our 5 winners: Anna, Theresa, Lisa W., Diana D., and Nannan.
The possibilities are endless! For starters, you can eat them by the handful, just like nature’s candy. They’re also irresistible over ice cream and shortcakes, spectacular in smoothies and salads, and perfect for pies and cobblers. Take a look at some our favorite cherry recipes opens in a new tab.
Savor Summer’s Sweetness
Want to cherish cherries just a little bit longer? Here are a few ideas for stretching the season:
Spiced Quick-Pickled Cherries opens in a new tabMore Tips for Preserving Peak-Season Cherries
To FREEZE cherries, remove pits and stems, and then spread in a single layer on a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe storage container. Add to smoothies, fruit crisps or hot cereal.
To DRY cherries, remove pits and stems, and then spread on a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet, or on an oiled rack fitted into a rimmed baking sheet. Bake in a 200°F oven for several hours (possibly 6–8), until cherries are dried and wrinkly. Toss into salads and cereal or stir them into Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies opens in a new tab.
What would you do with a 5-lb box of peak-season cherries? Leave a comment below by Wednesday, July 16 and to be entered to win!
The fine print: These are red Washington cherries and will be shipped directly to you from our farmer partners. Depending on availability and quality, they may be organic or conventional. No purchase necessary. Promotion ends July 16, 2014, 11:59 PM CDT. Must be a legal resident of the US or Canada (except in Quebec, where it is void) age 18 or older to participate. Taxes on prize, if applicable, are the responsibility of the winner. Employees of Whole Foods Market, Inc., are not eligible. Void where prohibited.
6/27/14: Blog updated to include the size of the box of cherries for the giveaway prize.
