1. FRUIT FACTS

2. Berries

3. Melons

4. Citrus Fruits

5. Drupes

6. Pomes

7. Tropical Fruits

8. FRUIT FACTS Cut fruits should be served as soon as possible to preserve nutrients. High quality fruits can be kept in the refrigerator for approximately a week. Fruit purchased during the off-season is more expensive.

9. FRUIT FACTS You should add fruit in a party menu because it adds a healthy alternative. Most fruit should be cooked in a microwave with little liquid. The advantage of thinly paring or peeling fruits is that fewer nutrients are lost.

10. FRUIT FACTS Microwaving fruit will help it keep its shape. Ripe fruit is tender with a pleasant aroma. Top-quality fruit should feel heavy for size.

11. FRUIT FACTS If a fruit gives slightly when pressed, that is an indication that it is ripe. A product labeled “fruit drink” is not 100% juice. Refrigerating fruits retards ripening.

12. FRUIT FACTS Frozen fruits should be served partially frozen. Canned, frozen, and dried fruits are considered to be convenience foods. The edible skins of fruits provide fiber and nutrients.

13. FRUIT FACTS The main reason for washing fruit is to remove dirt and pesticide residues. When poached, fruit will retain its shape. To make fruit sauce, the cooking process breaks down the texture.

14. FRUIT FACTS Firm fruits bake best. Dried fruit is a good snack choice because it is a concentrated form of energy. Pineapple has the least sugar when it is packed in juice.

15. FRUIT FACTS The most nutritious form of peaches is fresh. A benefit of selecting frozen fruit instead of fresh fruit is that it stores longer. Before cooking or eating fresh fruit, be sure to wash it in cool water.

16. FRUIT FACTS Ascorbic acid or lemon juice should be put on cut fruit to drastically reduce enzymatic browning. Sugar is added at the beginning of the cooking time for poached fruits to help the fruit retain its shape.

17. FRUIT FACTS Other than bananas, pears, and some apples, you should not purchase “green” fruit because it does not ripen well. When simmering fruit, add cinnamon sticks to the water to add flavor. Fruit should be poached until it is tender.

18. FRUIT FACTS Dried fruits should be served as snacks. The brownish surface areas on oranges or grapefruits do not indicate anything about the quality of the fruit.