Buy fresh

When buying cherries, look for nice plump glossy fruit. Leave stalks on because they will stay fresher for longer. If you need to store cherries, transfer to a container and line each layer with paper towels to prevent stalks nicking skins. Don’t wash cherries until ready to use, as moisture can make them rot.

If you need an excuse to tuck in – other than for the gorgeous taste and numerous health benefits – it could be that a bowl of cherries before bedtime will bring you sweet dreams thanks to their melatonin.