BLUEBERRY BANANA

When it comes to fruit pairings, blueberry and banana are a match made in heaven. These two summertime favorites complement each other perfectly, combining sweet, tangy, creamy and crunchy textures in each bite. While delicious eaten fresh out of hand, blueberries and bananas can be used in a wide variety of breakfast dishes, snacks, desserts and more. Read on for amazing ways to enjoy this dynamic fruit duo.

Fresh and Simple Snacks

One of the easiest ways to enjoy blueberries and bananas is nature’s way – fresh from the bunch! For a quick snack or energy boost, simply wash a handful of berries and peel and slice half a banana. Enjoy as is or top yogurt or oatmeal.

For dippable fun, coat banana slices in lemon juice then roll in blueberries. Skewer for a fruity kebab. Dip in chocolate or nut butters.

Blend the two into a smoothie, or layer blueberry compote and banana slices into a parfait glass. Options are endless!

On-the-Go Energy

The natural sugars in blueberries and bananas provide an excellent source of lasting energy. Bring along for hiking, school lunches or sporting events.

Pancakes and Waffles

What better way to start your day than with a tall stack of blueberry banana pancakes or waffles? The burst of sweet fruit and wholesome grains will power your morning.

Fold mashed banana and fresh blueberries right into fluffy batter before cooking up silver dollar style, or stud larger pancakes and waffles with fruit pieces.

Drizzle with honey, maple, or a cream cheese glaze. Sprinkle with toasted nuts or coconut for added crunch.

Blend It In

For bright color and fruity flavor throughout, puree the blueberries and bananas into your batter. Cookies, cakes and muffins are delicious too!

Stuffed French Toast

For a twist on breakfast, stuff slices of challah, brioche or cube bread with a blueberry banana mixture before dipping in custard and griddling. The fruit filling will ooze out into sweet syrupy drizzle.

Mix blueberries, mashed banana, lemon and orange zest together with a bit of sugar and cinnamon. Spoon on bread, then top with another slice and press gently.

Cook in butter until golden on both sides. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey.

Fruity Salad

For a fresh, summery side or dessert, toss blueberries and sliced banana with yogurt, honey and mint. The options for mix-ins are endless - granola, chocolate chips, toasted coconut, nuts, lime juice or other fruits.

Make it decadent by layering sweetened cream cheese mousse with the fruits in parfait glasses. Garnish with crushed cookies or graham crackers.

Let bananas ripen until flecked brown for intense sweetness in fruit salads.

Savory Salads

While we typically think of blueberries and bananas in sweet dishes, they also pair beautifully with poultry and greens for savory salads. Toss banana chunks and blueberries with chicken or turkey over spinach with a lemony vinaigrette.

Or top grilled salmon with a flavorful salsa of blueberries, banana, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro and lime juice. Savory-sweet sensation!

Conclusion

With their complementing flavors, textures and colors, blueberries and bananas are a match made in fruit heaven. While perfect for on-the-go snacking, these superfoods can be used in endless breakfasts, desserts, salads and more. Blend up fluffy pancakes or waffles studded with juicy berries and bananas. Layer in parfaits, stuff in French toast or toss in yogurt. However you enjoy them, this dynamic duo promises feel-good nutrition in each tasty bite.

FAQs

1. What are the health benefits?

Blueberries and bananas provide antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber, potassium and magnesium.

2. Do they work in savory dishes?

Yes, blueberries and sliced bananas pair well in salads with greens, chicken, turkey or fish.

3. What's the best way to store them?

Keep fresh blueberries refrigerated. Let bananas ripen on the counter, then refrigerate to stop ripening.

4. Can you freeze them?

Absolutely! Spread berries or banana slices on a baking sheet and freeze, then transfer to bags.

5. How long do they keep after cutting?

Eat cut fruits within a few days for best quality and freshness.