These are a storehouse of nutrients, high in vitamins and fibre, and an excellent source of antioxidants.

Berries have it all. With their jewel-toned colours, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries are a feast for the eyes and for the taste buds, too. And they are a storehouse of nutrients, high in vitamins and fibre, and an excellent source of antioxidants.

Buying and Storing

Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries are available both fresh and frozen. You can also find canned strawberries, but their texture is rather mushy and best suited to sauces and drinks.

When purchasing fresh berries, look for those that are firm and brightly coloured. Blueberries should have a whitish powdery appearance over the berry called a "bloom." Avoid berries that are mouldy or shrivelled. Blackberries should be shiny and black, not dull or reddish.

Fresh strawberries, blackberries and raspberries don't keep very long, so plan to use them within a couple of days. Blueberries stay fresh longer and can be stored for up to five days. Refrigerate berries as soon as possible after purchase, but don't wash them until you need them.

Availability

Frozen and imported fresh berries are available in supermarkets year round. But all berries are less expensive and tastier when they're in season.

Peak season for fresh berries are:

Strawberries - June and July

Raspberries - July to September

Blackberries - early July for about three weeks

Blueberries - September

Preparation

Fresh berries should always be washed just before they are served.

Wash whole berries in a solution of water that contains a drop of mild dish soap or a commercial vegetable wash.

Place berries in a colander, then dip them repeatedly in the bowl of the cleaning solution.

Rinse well under running water and spread them out on paper towels to dry.

To maximize their flavour let berries reach room temperature before serving. After washing and drying, you can slice strawberries, but leave raspberries and blueberries whole.

A simple way to serve berries is with a sprinkle of sugar to taste and a splash of lemon juice or orange liquor. Let them sit for about 30 minutes while the juices mix with the sugar. This concoction makes a yummy topping for ice cream, cake or pancakes. Stir fresh or frozen berries into yogurt, sprinkle them on cereal or blend them in smoothies. To freeze berries, simply wash and dry them thoroughly, then place them on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, put them in the freezer. Once frozen, place the berries in freezer bags.

Try it today:

Strawberry and Cracked Black Pepper Granita

Blueberry Dumplings with Creme Fraiche

Blackberry Chutney

Summer Berry Pudding