As Summer ripens across Australia, cherry orchards burst into colour — trees heavy with glossy, ruby-red fruit that glisten under the sun. Sweet, tart and irresistibly juicy, cherries are one of the season’s most anticipated delights.
Whether eaten fresh by the handful, baked into desserts, or paired with savoury dishes, cherries bring a vibrant touch of indulgence to the table.
Understanding how to choose, store and even preserve cherries will help you savour their sweetness well beyond the season.
Choosing the Best Cherries
When selecting cherries, look for fruit that is firm, plump and deeply coloured — the darker the hue, the sweeter the taste. Stems should be green and flexible, a sign of freshness, while the skin should be smooth and shiny. Avoid cherries that appear soft, wrinkled or bruised, as these are past their prime.
For the best flavour, choose cherries that feel heavy for their size — a good indication of juiciness. Sweet varieties like Bing, Lapin and Stella are perfect for snacking and desserts, while tart cherries such as Morello lend a bright, tangy note to cooking and sauces.
Storing for Freshness
Cherries are highly perishable and best enjoyed as soon as possible after picking. Store unwashed cherries in a breathable container or loosely covered bowl in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week.
Only wash cherries right before eating to prevent excess moisture from speeding up spoilage. For optimal flavour, let refrigerated cherries come to room temperature before serving — it enhances their natural sweetness and aroma.
Freezing for Year-round Enjoyment
To enjoy cherries long after Summer fades, freezing is simple and effective. Start by washing and drying the fruit, then remove the stems and pits. Spread the cherries in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze until firm before transferring to airtight bags or containers.
Frozen cherries are perfect for blending into smoothies, baking into pies, or simmering into compotes and sauces — a little taste of Summer anytime you crave it.
Health Benefits Worth Noting
Beyond their jewel-like beauty, cherries are nutritional powerhouses. They’re rich in vitamin C, potassium and fibre, while their deep red pigments — anthocyanins — are potent antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Cherries support heart health, muscle recovery and better sleep, thanks to natural melatonin. Low in calories and bursting with flavour, they’re a delicious way to nourish body and soul through the Summer months.
Here are three recipes to put fresh and in-season cherries on the table this week:
Golden-skinned spiced roast pork glistens with aromatic juices, infused with cinnamon and five spice. The tender meat melts beneath a ruby glaze of cherry sauce - sweet, tart and richly spiced. Each bite balances warmth and fruit, a festive harmony of savoury depth and luscious brightness that lingers on the palate.
Tender grilled chicken rests atop a vibrant medley of ancient grains - nutty farro, chewy barley and quinoa - tossed with sweet cherries and crisp fennel. Fresh herbs and citrus dressing brighten every bite, balancing earthy grains and juicy fruit. A wholesome, elegant salad that celebrates texture, freshness and the delicate dance of flavour.
Succulent flakes of seared salmon crown a colourful salad of sweet corn, ripe avocado, and juicy cherries. The vibrant mix bursts with freshness - creamy, crisp and tangy in perfect balance. A drizzle of Dijon dressing ties it together, creating a light yet luxurious dish that tastes like Summer’s finest moment.
