NOW IN SEASON: Ontario Raspberries

This berry is a classic summer favourite! Ontario Raspberries are usually ruby red in colour & are known for their intense berry flavor and aroma. You can find sweet Ontario Raspberries right now at the Hamilton Farmers’ Market!

Fun Facts about Ontario Raspberries: 

• Most likely native to Asia, wild raspberries have been eaten since prehistoric times.
• The Crusaders wrote poems about the delicious fruit with the heady perfume they found on their way to Jerusalem.
• In North America, raspberries were considered a luxury well into the mid-1800s.

Buying and Storing Tips:

When buying, look for firm, dry berries. Raspberries are very fragile, so handle with care. Store fresh raspberries in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.

To freeze raspberries for later, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a sealed plastic bag or container.

How to Prep your Raspberries:

Just before serving, gently and lightly rinse under cold running water, then carefully drain on paper towel.

How & Where To Eat Them:

• Raspberries make a delicious snack & are most commonly eaten as they are, or with fresh cream poured on top
• They are also great for baking & are a light / delicious ingredient when included in mousses and tarts
• They are great paired with many types of meat, including fish, chicken or lamb
• Raspberry vinaigrette can be used to dress salads or vegetables or to marinate grilled meats or fish

Summer Sweet Raspberry Smoothie

Enjoy a delicious Raspberry breakfast smoothie that is so easy to make! It’s a great way to start your busy morning with a nutritious smoothie.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup oats
• 1 banana
• 1 cup Silk Unsweetened Almond milk
• A handful of raspberries

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients into your blender and blend until smooth.
2. Add more raspberries for garnish on the side & enjoy!

You can enjoy Ontario Raspberries right now at the Hamilton Farmers’ Market. Plan your trip today!