Packed with blueberries

living light

These juicy jewels lend sweet, tangy flavor and vivid color to salads, muffins, and more.

My friend Donna Leaf sees a lot of me this month. She and I head out the door, wicker baskets in tow, to gather sun-ripened blueberries from the bushes in her backyard. I choose the big, juicy berries one by one, enjoying a little friendly competition with the birds. A few hours later, I head home with purple fingers and a basketful of gorgeous fruit. (Don't worry-Donna gets a blueberry treat the next day.)

If you can't pick your own, visit your favorite farmers market or grocery store soon. Now's the time to enjoy the tastiest and most affordable berries. They're great for busy folks because they require no peeling, coring, or cutting. Just wash and eat unadorned, or include in your favorite recipes. You'll definitely want to add these fabulous dishes to your culinary repertoire. JOY E. ZACHARIA, R.D.

BLUEBERRY-CINNAMON MUFFINS

MAKES 15 MUFFINS

CHICKEN-BLUEBERRY SALAD

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jul 2002
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