Produce Pick of the Week: The All American Fruit

Jonathan, Gala, and Granny Smith galore! Apples in their many varieties (over 600 in the U.S.) are the iconic symbol many of us picture when we think of the fruit group, and for a good reason too--they are nutritious and delicious!

The Skinny on Apples
Apples, skins intact, are a good source of fiber. Fiber helps to keep things moving in our digestive system and it may also be beneficial in helping to lower blood cholesterol levels. In addition, apples contain an antioxidant called quercitin which helps maintain a healthy heart and also prevents the spread of cancerous cells in the body.

Like other fruits and vegetables, apples are also a good source of water and are energy dense, meaning, you get a lot of good nutrition for a low amount of calories, fat, and sodium.

Recommendations for good nutrition suggest that we get a minimum of 2 cups of fruit each day (The amount depends on your individual needs. Go to MyPyramid Plan to learn about your own unique needs.) Making the apple a regular part of your plate may be a great way to help you eat a healthy amount of fruit each day.

Remember, as the old adage goes...An apple a day keeps the doctor away!Want more apple in your diet?
Try one of these simple suggestions to help you bring the benefits of an apple to your plate.

• Chopped apples in green salad (great with poppy seed dressing or bleu cheese)
• Homemade applesauce (core, peel, steam, blend, viola!)
• Apple desserts: cobblers, crips, pies and tarts
• Apple slices with peanut butter or cheese
• Include in fruit salsas and coleslaws
• Chopped apple in chicken salads
• Add thin slices to sandwhiches
• Dried apples (apple chips)
• Apple muffins and breads
• Apple fruit leather
• 100% apple juice

Featured RecipeApple chicken Stir-Fry
From Produce for a Better Health Foundation