TELL ME MORE: Pomegranates

Symbolic of abundance and prosperity, pomegranates have been prized for their rubyred color, flavor, and health benefits as far back in history as Greek mythology. On the outside, pomegranates have thick, leathery, inedible skins. But inside, they’re filled with hundreds of edible sweet-tart seeds (known as arils) housed in inedible membranes. Here in the States, they’re available October through January, so this fleeting window ups their star power. And because they’re ripe when picked, they’re always ready to eat. Choose those with a deep color and unwrinkled skin, that are heavy in the hand — or you can buy already prepared arils and juice in the produce section of most grocery stores. Considered a superfood, pomegranates are full of vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, essential to maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.