February is here, and so is our new Fruit of the Month: the tropical and versatile guava! Known for its sweet aroma, delicious flavor, and impressive nutritional benefits, guava is a fruit worth celebrating. Whether you’re new to guava or a longtime fan, let’s explore why this exotic treat deserves a place in your kitchen this month.
The Nutritional Benefits of Guava
- One guava contains more than twice the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, which supports immune health and helps your body fight off infections.
- This fruit is a low-calorie snack, making it perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
- Guava contains powerful antioxidants like lycopene, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
- Guava provides potassium, folate, magnesium, and vitamins A and E—all crucial for maintaining overall health.
Did You Know?
- Guavas are native to Central America and were later cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
- Every part of the guava is edible, from its skin to its seeds!
- The pink or red flesh of guava gets its vibrant color from lycopene, an antioxidant also found in tomatoes.
- Guava leaves are often brewed into tea for their medicinal properties, including aiding digestion and soothing a sore throat.
Shopping For and Storing Guava
- Look for guavas that are slightly soft to the touch with a light yellow or greenish-yellow color.
- A ripe guava will emit a sweet, floral fragrance. Avoid fruit with blemishes or overly soft spots.
- If your guavas are unripe, store them at room temperature for a few days until they soften.
- Once ripe, refrigerate them in a plastic bag to extend their shelf life by up to a week.
More Ways to Enjoy Guava
Fresh & Sliced
Enjoy guava as a refreshing snack by slicing it into wedges. Eat it with or without the skin, depending on your preference.
Smoothies
Blend guava with other tropical fruits like mango and pineapple for a vitamin-packed smoothie.
Salads
Add guava slices to green salads for a burst of sweetness or toss them with citrus fruits for a tropical fruit salad.
Desserts
Use guava to make jams, jellies, or fillings for pastries and cakes.
Recipe: Guava & Yogurt Parfait
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe guavas, peeled and diced
- 1 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup granola
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
- In a glass or bowl, layer Greek yogurt, guava, and granola.
- Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
- Drizzle with honey if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this quick, healthy, and delicious treat!