I love that cherries are fresh and in-season right now. They’re just so plump and juicy, with the perfect combination of tart and sweet. And they can be used in so many tasty healthy cherry recipes!
There are a few places up by me in the Northeast that you can pick your own cherries, and I’m hoping to be able to get out there soon. There’s a short window for the peak of growing season though (usually June/July) so be sure to grab some cherries at your local farm or grocery store if you haven’t had a chance to get any yet.
Once you scoop ’em up, check out the details below on the differences between tart and sweet cherries, and some amazing healthy cherry recipes that you can make this summer (sweet & savory!).
Tart vs. sweet – what’s the difference?
Sweet cherries are the type that are most easily found in the grocery store. They come in several colors, from a golden color with hints of red to a deep purple color. They may be round or somewhat heart shaped.
Tart cherries, on the other hand, are usually a bright red color and have a rounder shape. These may be found at farmers markets or in CSA programs, or occasionally at some grocery stores. Tart cherries contain more antioxidants, melatonin, and quercetin (a flavonoid) compared to sweet cherries (though sweet cherries are still a healthy choice). But tart cherries also have less sugar, so sometimes people don’t like their taste. This type is typically used in making pies and desserts.
Either way, sweet or tart, cherries are a nutritious choice to add to your recipes!
Healthy Cherry Recipes Roundup!
I reached out to a ton of great fellow bloggers for some yummy healthy cherry recipes to tempt your palate this summer, and they did not disappoint. Specific dietary practices/limitations are noted if applicable. Note that some recipes are “healthier” versions – i.e. desserts that have better-for-you ingredients – but they are still desserts so practice good portion control. 🙂 Enjoy!
[Tweet “Grab some fresh cherries this summer and whip up one of these 10 healthy recipes!”]1. Cherry Berry Cobbler from Plaid & Paleo {Paleo}
This cherry berry cobbler is a delicious blend of cherries and blueberries, and makes a perfect summer dessert – plus this recipe is pretty low in added sugar, which makes it a better choice than many others. {Tip – if you find the filling very liquidy before adding the cranberry juice, cut back a smidge on the juice.}
2. Grilled Salmon Salad with Cherry Reduction from Jill Conyers
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a nutrient-dense meal option. Combining it with a cherry reduction over a bed of fresh greens though? Takes it to a whole other level, both in terms of taste and nutrition!
3. Chocolate Tart Cherry Recovery Smoothie from Jenna Braddock, RD
If you’re an athlete, you’ll want to save this recipe! Tart cherries have been shown to help reduce inflammation and assist in muscle recovery.
4. Dark Cherry Mocha Granola from Athletic Avocado {Gluten Free, Vegan}
I’ve been searching for a good homemade granola recipe and I think I’ve found it in this one. Almost all of the sugar in the recipe comes naturally from fruit, and it’s perfect for anyone with dietary limitations (gluten free, dairy free, vegan).
5. Chocolate Chip Cherry Banana Blondies from Kim’s Cravings {Vegetarian}
Juicy cherries, rich dark chocolate chips, and creamy banana – all in one recipe? Yum! I can’t wait to try these blondies.
6. Cherry Almond Overnight Oats from Running with the Sunrise! {Vegetarian}
Overnight oats are a convenient breakfast option for those on the go. Because you prepare everything the night before, your jar or bowl of oats is ready to grab-and-go in the morning. You can eat ‘em cold or warm ‘em up – the choice is yours
7. Cherry & Dark Chocolate Coconut Milk Ice Cream from Plaid & Paleo {Paleo}
If you can’t eat dairy because of an intolerance or allergy, if you’re following a paleo style diet, or you just want to try something new – coconut milk ice cream is a fun thing to experiment with. This recipe combines the coconut milk ice cream base with fresh cherries and dark chocolate.
8. Cherry Almond Smoothie from The Fit Cookie {Vegan}
I literally stopped writing this post to whip up this smoothie because it sounded so yummy – and is only 3 ingredients! Give it a try today.
9. Shredded Chicken with Cherry Barbecue Sauce from Thoroughly Thriving
I love shredded chicken in the crockpot! I normally make a traditional barbecue sauce, but I love the addition of cherries to this sauce.
10. Dark Chocolate Cherry Brownies from Snacking in Sneakers {Vegan}
I just posted this recipe a few days ago and already can’t wait to make it again. Dark chocolate plus sweet cherries give outstanding flavor, and these brownies are made with whole wheat flour and black beans!
**Plus, check out this amazing roundup from FitFluential that includes 10 Tart Cherry Recipes for Recovery and Better Sleep!**
Share with me: What’s your favorite way to use cherries in recipes? Do you prefer cooking with sweet or tart cherries? Do you have any healthy cherry recipes to share? Feel free to leave it in the comments!
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So much cherry love in one place! I see several recipes I want to make. Thanks for the link love 🙂
You’re so welcome! I can’t wait to make your salmon again 🙂
Mmm! All of these recipes look so yummy. Now I understand why you mentioned good nutritional practices at the beginning 😉
I love to just eat cherries by themselves. Usually the sweet ones .
I love sweet cherries too just by themselves. When I was out in California a few years ago it was so fun to be able to grab them at any road side stand.
Ooooh everything looks so good! I love cherries!
Me too, they’re so delicious!
I want to eat them all! Thanks for the amazing collection of recipes. 😀
Haha go for it (on different days of course)!
I love tart cherries. Really I love all cherries except maraschino cherries!
Oh my goodness, small world – I hate maraschino cherries too!!