Plump, juicy, and antioxidant-packed, blueberries are the ultimate summer superfruit—and right now, they’re at their sweetest. Whether you’re tossing them into a smoothie, baking them into cobblers, or using them in unexpected savory dishes (hello, blueberry beef ribs), these little gems bring a burst of flavor to every bite.
In this seasonal spotlight, we’re covering everything you need to know about blueberries: how to pick the best ones, store them like a pro, and use them in creative, delicious ways. We’ve rounded up our favorite blueberry recipes—from muffins and parfaits to drinks and desserts—plus a few surprising savory ideas that might just become your new go-to.
Get ready to make the most of peak blueberry season with kitchen tips, health facts, and berry good inspiration for every meal of the day. Let’s get into it!
Why Blueberries Deserve the Hype
Blueberries aren’t just delicious—they’re a superfood! Packed with vitamin C, fiber, and powerful antioxidants, they support brain health, reduce inflammation, and keep your immune system strong. Plus, they’re naturally low in calories but big on flavor.
But beyond the health perks, blueberries bring a sweet-tart burst to everything from classic blueberry muffins to savory dishes like blueberry stuffed chicken. Whether you enjoy them fresh, frozen, or cooked, one thing’s for sure—these little berries are small but mighty!
Still need convincing? Just pop one in your mouth and experience the explosion of juicy sweetness!
How to Pick the Best Blueberries
When shopping for blueberries, keep these tips in mind:
- Look for deep blue or purple berries – A dusty, matte finish (called bloom) is a sign of freshness.
- Go for firm, plump berries – Soft, shriveled, or leaky ones mean they’re past their prime.
- Give them a gentle shake – If they don’t roll freely in the container, they might be overripe.
- Size doesn’t matter – Large or small, flavor is more about ripeness than size!
Pro tip: Blueberries don’t continue ripening after being picked, so choose the best-looking ones and enjoy them fresh!
How to Prep Blueberries
Blueberries are one of the easiest fruits to prepare—no peeling, hulling, or slicing needed! Just follow these simple steps:
- Rinse right before eating – Washing too early adds moisture, which can lead to mold.
- Sort out any soft or damaged berries – These can spoil the rest.
- Pat dry with a paper towel – Excess water shortens their shelf life.
- Use whole or mash them – Perfect for smoothies, sauces, or baking!
Storing Blueberries for Maximum Freshness
Keep blueberries fresh with these storage tricks:
- Refrigerate in a breathable container – Store in a shallow layer in a paper towel-lined container.
- Don’t wash until ready to eat – Moisture speeds up spoilage.
- Freeze for longer storage – Spread berries on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a bag for easy use in smoothies and baking.
Ways to Enjoy Blueberries
Now for the best part—how to eat them! Blueberries are incredibly versatile, so here are some fun ways to enjoy them:
- Fresh: Toss them in yogurt, oatmeal, or salads.
- Blended: Add to smoothies, lemonade, or blueberry-infused cocktails.
- Baked: Use them in muffins, scones, or cobblers.
- Savory: Try in salads, chutneys, or as a glaze for meats.
- Sauces & Jams: Make homemade blueberry jam or drizzle blueberry syrup over pancakes.
- Frozen Treats: Blend into ice cream or freeze them for a cool snack.
Must-Try Blueberry Recipes
