The Power of the Pomegranate

Pomegranates have symbolized everlasting life and vibrant health across many cultural traditions, from ancient mythologies to cherished religious texts. It’s not surprising that this fruit has fascinated people across time as its jewel-like, edible seeds, called arils, are uniquely beautiful and contain high concentrations of cancer-fighting antioxidants. In fact, studies have shown that a glass of pomegranate juice has more antioxidants than green tea or blueberries! Pomegranates are also the only food that contains a compound called punicalagin, which has been linked to lower cholesterol levels, healthy blood pressure, and decreases in the atherosclerotic plaque that causes heart blockages. The seed at the center of the ruby-red fruit is also incredibly rich in fiber, while the tender flesh around the seed may promote joint health and reduce the risk of depression! With all of those incredible health benefits, making your way to those delicious, sparking seeds is well worth the work!

If you’re not sure how to incorporate pomegranates into your culinary creations, check our list of wonderful ways to enjoy powerfully nourishing pomegranates!

Straight Up – Pomegranate seeds are a tart and refreshing snack that can be excellent for curbing those pesky sweets cravings. If you’re not sure what the best way to get to the seeds is, check out wikiHow’s Guide on How to Open a Pomegranate! Pick your favorite method, retrieve those tasty seed treasures, and enjoy!

Add the Seeds to Salads – Pomegranate seeds make a wonderful addition to salads because they add a vibrant pop of color and a burst of bright flavor. They look beautiful against some fresh mixed greens and provide a touch of tangy sweetness to grain salads like my Colorful Quinoa Salad!

Cook with Their Juice – Pomegranate juice has become so popular that you can find it at almost any market. This deep purple-red fruit juice has rich and complex flavors that are ideal for enhancing sauces and glazes. I love to make roasted root veggies with a pomegranate glaze by tossing sweet potatoes or carrots in a little olive oil and a few splashes of pomegranate juice before throwing them in the oven!

In Smoothies – Both pomegranate seeds and pomegranate juice add a powerful dose of antioxidants to smoothies. If you have a high-powered blender, feel free to drop a handful of the seeds into your favorite green smoothie. If you’re not sure if your blender can handle the pomegranate seeds, opt for a splash of 100% pomegranate juice!

As a Red Wine Substitute – While you probably won’t be getting tipsy on this berry-colored drink, the color, flavor, and tannin-y mouth feel of pomegranate juice makes it an excellent substitute for red wine during cleanses or other times that you might want to avoid alcohol. If you’re headed to a holiday party where you don’t want to imbibe cocktails or wine, simply tote along a tall bottle of pomegranate juice and treat yourself to delightfully guilt-free refills all evening long.

In Healthy Desserts – Pomegranate seeds play beautifully in fresh and healthy desserts. Keep it simple by pairing a piece of intense, dark chocolate with a handful of pomegranate seeds or get elaborate and add pomegranate seeds to fruity desserts like my raw, vegan, and paleo-friendly Berry Bliss Smoothie Parfait!

Stay tuned to The Philosophie Blog for more articles on wonderful ways to use seasonal fruits and vegetables and be sure to follow The Philosophie on social media for tips and tricks on how to nourish your mind, body, and soul!