As the warmer weather embraces Australia, blueberries come into peak season, delighting shoppers with their vibrant colour, juicy sweetness and impressive health benefits. Whether enjoyed fresh, added to breakfast bowls, or baked into desserts, blueberries are one of the most versatile fruits around.
Knowing how to select, store and even freeze them will help you make the most of this seasonal superfood.
Choosing the Best Berries
When selecting blueberries, look for fruit that is plump, firm and evenly coloured with a rich blue or purple hue. The natural ‘bloom’ – a whitish, powdery coating – is a good sign of freshness and acts as a natural barrier to protect the fruit.
Avoid berries that appear shrivelled, overly soft, or have signs of moisture in the punnet, as these can indicate spoilage. A gentle shake of the container should reveal berries that move freely, rather than sticking together.
Storing for Freshness
Blueberries are delicate, so proper storage is key. Keep them refrigerated in their original breathable container or transfer them to a shallow dish lined with paper towel, loosely covered.
Avoid washing them until just before eating, as excess moisture can cause mould. Stored correctly, fresh blueberries will keep for up to a week, retaining their sweetness and snap.
Freezing for Year-round Enjoyment
One of the best things about blueberries is how well they freeze. To freeze, spread fresh, dry berries in a single layer on a baking tray and place in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer to airtight bags or containers.
This prevents clumping and makes it easy to scoop out just what you need. Frozen blueberries are perfect for smoothies, baking, or stirring into warm porridge, keeping their nutrition and flavour long after the season ends.
Health Benefits Worth Noting
Beyond their delicious taste, blueberries are celebrated for their nutritional punch. They are naturally low in calories yet rich in vitamins C and K, dietary fibre and antioxidants. These antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins that give blueberries their deep colour, are linked to improved heart health, reduced inflammation and potential benefits for brain function and memory.
Studies also suggest regular consumption may help regulate blood sugar, making them a smart choice for a balanced diet.
Here are three delicious recipes to put fresh and in-season blueberries on the dinner table this week:
Prosciutto and blueberries create a perfect balance on pizza. The salty, savoury richness of prosciutto contrasts beautifully with the sweet, juicy burst of blueberries. Together, they highlight both flavours, while creamy cheese ties them together, offering a gourmet twist that’s simultaneously refreshing, indulgent and wonderfully unexpected.
Smoked salmon, blackberries and blueberries create a vibrant balance in a salad. The smoky richness of the salmon pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart burst of berries, offering contrast and harmony. Together, they deliver depth, freshness and antioxidants, making the dish both nutritious and indulgent with layered flavours and textures.
With fresh fruit and crushed meringue, this ice cream cake recipe is the ultimate Spring and Summer dessert. Fruity, simple and perfect for any special occasion.
