Bright red RubyFrost® apples deliver a blend of tart and sweet flavors with an exceptionally crisp texture. Developed in partnership with Cornell University’s apple breeding program, RubyFrost® apples are grown exclusively in New York State. This apple variety took 10 years to develop and began being marketed commercially in 2013. RubyFrost® ripen later in the fall than most apple varieties, making them a good choice as a winter fruit for use in baking, cooking or simple eating freshly sliced. One RubyFrost® apple contains 14% daily value of vitamin C, 7% daily value of potassium and 17% daily value of fiber – all for about 100 calories.
Many of us grew up hearing the adage: “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”. Research studies are available to provide scientific backing for this sage advice. Apples are a rich source of phytochemicals (such as quercetin, catechin, phloridzin, and chlorogenic acid) and contain both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Epidemiological studies have linked the consumption of apples with reduced risk of some cancers, cardiovascular disease, asthma and diabetes. 1 In addition to the health protective effects of eating apples, many of us simple enjoy eating them.
I was excited to receive samples of RubyFrost®apples for the purpose of this review. First, I simply sliced one to share with my kiddos. I am happy to report that this apple got a thumbs-up from both taste-tasters. Next, I tried adding RubyFrost® slices to a roasted beet salad topped with walnuts, goat cheese, arugula and a drizzle of a simple citrus and extra-virgin olive oil vinaigrette. The apple’s sweet, tart taste and crunchy texture were the perfect complement to this salad.
Here are some easy ways to incorporate RubyFrost® apples into everyday meals and snacks:
• Add apples chunks to your morning bowl of oatmeal
• Keep apples on hand for a fresh and crunchy mid-day snack
• Add apple slices and nut butter to lunchboxes (kids and yours too!)
• Add grated apples to pancakes, waffles, muffins or quick breads
• Make your own homemade applesauce in a slow cooker
• Add diced apples to salads including mixed greens, beets or broccoli
• Include apples in your favorite smoothie recipes
• Slice and sprinkle with cinnamon and honey to pair with Greek yogurt
For more info and recipe ideas, visit crunchtimeapplegrowers.com. If you decide to give these apples a try, please share your experience. Comment below, tag NutritionConnectionsLLC on Facebook, or tweet me @KarenBuch using #FoodNewsReviews.