Dried Tart Cherries Recipes for Delicious Healthy Treats

Dried tart cherries are a delightful ingredient that can add a burst of tangy sweetness to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking to enhance your baked goods, salads, or savory meals, these little gems bring both flavor and nutrition.

Their tartness balances well with sweet, salty, and earthy flavors, making them incredibly versatile. In this blog post, we will explore some delicious dried tart cherry recipes that you can easily make at home.

From snacks to main courses and desserts, dried tart cherries can elevate your culinary creations and provide a healthy twist. Plus, they’re packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making them not only tasty but beneficial for your health.

If you’re new to cooking with dried tart cherries or just looking for fresh ideas, this guide is packed with recipes and tips to inspire your kitchen adventures. Ready to discover how these tangy treats can transform your meals?

Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dried tart cherries offer a unique flavor profile that blends tartness with a hint of natural sweetness, perfect for adding complexity to any dish. Their chewy texture adds a pleasant contrast to crunchy nuts or soft grains, making each bite interesting and satisfying.

Beyond taste, they are a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, supporting overall health while satisfying your palate.

Whether you’re baking cookies, tossing a salad, or creating a hearty grain bowl, dried tart cherries can easily adapt and enhance your recipes. They store well, making them a convenient pantry staple for spontaneous cooking.

Plus, they pair beautifully with ingredients like nuts, oats, chocolate, and even savory herbs, giving you endless creative possibilities!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried tart cherries (unsweetened preferred for best tart flavor)
• 2 cups rolled oats (for baking or granola)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional for texture)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (for sweetness)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted, for binding)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional spice)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (for savory recipes)
• 1/2 cup feta or vegan cheese (for salads or grain bowls)
• Fresh herbs like mint or parsley (optional for garnish)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (various sizes)
• Baking sheet (for granola or bars)
• Parchment paper (to prevent sticking)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor or blender (optional for chopping nuts)
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Cooking pot or rice cooker (for grains)
• Knife and cutting board
• Salad spinner (optional for washed greens)

Instructions

1. Prepare the base: If making granola or bars, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the dried tart cherries.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Bind the mixture: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Bake: Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Remove when golden and fragrant.
6. Cool and store: Allow the granola or bars to cool completely before breaking into pieces or cutting. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
7. For savory bowls: Cook quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly.
8. Assemble bowls: In a serving bowl, combine cooked grains, dried tart cherries, crumbled feta or vegan cheese, and fresh herbs. Drizzle with a simple lemon vinaigrette or olive oil and toss gently.
9. Serve immediately: Enjoy your vibrant, nutrient-packed tart cherry grain bowl warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, soak dried tart cherries in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes before using. This plumps them up and intensifies their tang.”

• Snack bars: Add seeds like chia or flax for added nutrition and crunch.
• Salads: Toss dried tart cherries with mixed greens, goat cheese, and toasted pecans for a refreshing twist.
• Baking: Incorporate dried tart cherries into muffins, scones, or bread for a delightful zing.
• Breakfast bowls: Sprinkle dried tart cherries over oatmeal or yogurt with a drizzle of honey.
• Savory dishes: Use dried tart cherries in couscous, pilafs, or alongside roasted vegetables for a sweet-tart contrast.
• Substitutions: If you don’t have coconut oil, melted butter or vegetable oil work well, though coconut oil adds a subtle richness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Dried tart cherries are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

• Sprinkle granola with dried tart cherries over a bowl of vegan yogurt for a wholesome breakfast.
• Add them to salads with nuts and cheese for a balanced sweet-savory bite.
• Mix into baked goods like muffins, scones, or bread to brighten flavors.
• Use as a topping on oatmeal or porridge to add texture and taste.
• In grain bowls or pilafs, combine with herbs, nuts, and a splash of citrus dressing.

For more creative and delicious vegan recipes, check out these favorites:

• Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping
• Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious
• Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Dried Tart Cherries Recipes Listicle

Tart Cherry Walnut Granola Bars

These bars are perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack. The combination of oats, walnuts, and dried tart cherries creates a chewy and crunchy texture that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup dried tart cherries
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine oats, walnuts, tart cherries, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Mix maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla in another bowl.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry and stir thoroughly.
5. Press mixture into the pan evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
7. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Quinoa Tart Cherry Salad

A refreshing, nutrient-dense salad with a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Great as a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
• 1/2 cup dried tart cherries
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or vegan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, dried cherries, parsley, and cheese.
2. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tart Cherry Vegan Muffins

Soft, moist muffins bursting with the tartness of cherries. A perfect treat for breakfast or teatime.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plant-based milk
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried tart cherries

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix plant milk, oil, and vanilla.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in dried tart cherries.
6. Divide batter evenly into muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool before serving.

Conclusion

Dried tart cherries are a fantastic ingredient to keep on hand for their flavor, nutrition, and versatility. From wholesome snack bars to refreshing salads and moist muffins, their tangy sweetness brightens up every dish.

Incorporating them into your cooking not only enhances taste but also offers health benefits thanks to their antioxidants and fiber content.

Experimenting with dried tart cherries can open up new culinary horizons, and these recipes are just the beginning. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find these ideas easy and rewarding to make.

For more plant-based inspiration, don’t forget to explore recipes like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious. Happy cooking and enjoy the wonderful flavors dried tart cherries bring to your table!

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