Thursday, May 26, 2011

Driscoll's Berries and North Carolina - A Perfect Pair

OK so the trip down to NC was riddled with flight delays, highway traffic and a GPS that said my hotel didnt exist, but the sweet spot emerged when I dug into a bowl of Driscolls blueberries this morning. Sweet, plump, healthy and satisfying, I didnt even reach for the blueberry muffins or parfaits that were also in front of me....just give me the berries by the handful. Today I did a live radio spot on WSJS - we fed the producer and hosts - but there is much more on tap for the next few days. If you are in North Carolina, come on out and say Hi!

North Carolina is the 4th largest blueberry producer and the season starts NOW. For the next month or so the berries are at their peak. Pick up extra and freeze them for future use. The ones you bring home and refrigerate will keep for a week. Rinse right before serving. You can find plenty of recipes at Driscolls, for both sweet and savory dishes. If you have never used blueberries in a savory approach, you are missing out. The Blueberry Couscous Salad with Mango, Onion and Lemon Dressing is quick and a great addition to grilled summer entrees.
Recent research says blueberries might help with memory loss - something I hate to admit I need help with - and they are packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients. At 80 calories a cup, they are a perfect, sweet snack. Kids love them too...and pie? Well, my Nana always made me blueberry pie and in my opinion there is no better breakfast than a wedge of warm pie with a dollop of plain or vanilla Greek yogurt.

Here's my schedule - introduce yourself and lets talk blueberries!

Thursday 5/26
260 14th Ave NE
Hickory, NC
I will be handing out samples and chatting about local blueberries from 2 - 5pm

Friday 5/27
2501 Lewisville-Clemmons Rd
New Towne Shopping Center
Clemmons, NC
I will be handing out samples and chatting about local blueberries from 2 - 5pm

Saturday 5/28
Check out the WFMY site for the time my TV segment for Driscolls will air

at 6:35AM tune into WXII-NBC to see some fabulous blueberry recipes brought to life. My favorite Blueberry Tart will be on the set, but you can make it at home.

3372 Robinwood Rd
Sherwood Plaza Shopping Center
Winston-Salem, NC
I will be handing out samples and chatting about local blueberries from 12 - 3pm