Cranberry Recipes

October is National Cranberry Month!

Enjoy this tangy little berry in a glass of juice, sprinkle sweetened dried cranberries on salads, or add fresh cranberries to your secret chutney recipe.

A new research study shows that cranberry juice cocktail has a novel "anti-adhesion" mechanism that helps protect the body from harmful bacteria that grape juice, apple juice, green tea and dark chocolate do not possess.

Led by a Rutgers University researcher, the study is the first of its kind to conclude that the cranberry's anti-adhesion benefits are derived from the unique structure of its natural condensed tannins, called proanthocyanidins, or PACs.

The new research was published in the current issue of Phytochemistry and was presented at the Seminar on Health Effects of Cranberries last month in Quebec.

"The results of this study show that not all PAC-rich foods are alike. It is the A-type structure of cranberry's PACs that may be important in protecting against harmful bacteria in the urinary tract," said Amy Howell, lead author of the report and a research scientist at Rutgers University.

Long a Thanksgiving staple, this healthy berry deserves a place on the table year-round. Besides for the fresh berries available in the fall, other products like cranberry juice, sweetened dried cranberries, and cranberry sauce deliver the health benefits and meal appeal throughout the year.

With new products like cranberry barbeque sauces and relishes appearing on the market, cranberries are quickly becoming a hot item in restaurants and on dining room tables. Celebrate National Cranberry Month by including cranberries in your family's diet.

Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Walnuts

Tangy Cranberry Turkey Barbecue Sandwich

Spicy Cranberry Turkey Wrap

Cranberry Bruschetta