Are you craving more variety in the way of fresh fruit this winter?  Although it is thought of as a summer fruit, we are proud to offer sweet Red Bing Cherries in the winter.  In fact, February is National Cherry Month, so celebrate at your house with a bag of Winter Cherries from The Fresh Market.

Being a red fruit, cherries are loaded with antioxidants, especially lycopene, which helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.  So not only are they delicious, but they’re extremely healthy too!

Choosing
When you are selecting your cherries, choose those that are clean, bright, shiny, firm (not hard) and free of any blemishes.  Look for those that feel heavy for their size.  The stems should be firmly attached to ensure the longest shelf life possible.  Remember, the sweetest cherries are darkest in color.

Storing
Cherries should be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.  Wash them just before eating.  For the best, sweetest flavor, allow the cherries to come to room temperature before eating.  Fresh cherries will last up to 4 days refrigerated.