If you’re like me, then you are anxiously awaiting spring’s arrival. I think we could all use some sunlight, warm breezes, and longer days. I’m also really looking forward to a new crop of fresh fruit—like kiwi, apricot and strawberries—to enjoy. These picks may not be at farmers markets and grocery stores near you just yet, so in the meantime, try these tasty ways to get a fruity flavor fix!

Get Your Fruit Fix

If you’re like me, then you are anxiously awaiting spring’s arrival. I think we could all use some sunlight, warm breezes, and longer days. I’m also really looking forward to a new crop of fresh fruit—like kiwi, apricot and strawberries—to enjoy. These picks may not be at farmers markets and grocery stores near you just yet, so in the meantime, try these tasty ways to get a fruity flavor fix!

Get Your Fruit Fix: Go for Frozen

Go for frozen

I’ve been relying on frozen berries, pitted cherries, and chunks of pineapples and mangoes for sweet satisfaction all winterlong. Frozen fruits are super convenient (always available, no spoiling, budget-friendly). And bonus: They are just as nutritious as fresh. That’s because they’re picked at peak ripeness and immediately flash frozen, helping to preserve all nutrients. I use them in smoothie recipes, like this Strawberry Mango Smoothie, and ice pop recipes, including these Cherry-Pineapple Pops.

Get Your Fruit Fix: Be Adventurous

Be adventurous

Most people are creatures of habits. We find something we like, and we stick with it. Your pre-spring fruit rotation might consist of apples, bananas, oranges. Of course, there’s nothing with that, but sometimes it’s nice to broaden your fruity horizons and experiment with some new picks. For instance, you could try persimmons, which are in season now. They taste almost like a cantaloupe with a shot of honey, and they have a texture similar to an apricot. Add diced persimmons to your fruit bowl or bake into muffins. Another unique selection: kumquat. They’re just slightly bigger than a grape and deliver sweet-tart, citrusy flavor. The peel is sweet and edible, while the juicy flesh is tart, for a complete eating experience.

Get Your Fruit Fix: Dress Drinks with Fruit

Dress drinks with fruit

I love that it’s so easy to eat fruit—in most cases, you can simply rinse and enjoy. But it’s also fun to use fruit in unexpected ways. These Strawberry Ice Cubes, starring frozen strawberries and LaCroix Berry Sparkling Water, are a great way to add flavor and color to beverages. Another idea: Add fruit slices to drinks, like in this Cucumber-Lemon Spa Water. They add nutrients, flavor and flair to your cup. And I’m obsessed with this Hibiscus Matcha Mocktail—it’s as colorful as it is tasty.

Get Your Fruit Fix: Incorporate Fruit into Entrées

Incorporate fruit into entrées 

Fruit is an ideal snack—a tasty, easy, and fuss-free bite between meals. But you can also use them to create culinary magic in meals; they add texture and pops of crave-worthy flavor to sauces, salads and elaborate main dishes. Whip up easy and indulgent Banana Bread Overnight Oats for a delicious breakfast. Bring one of these bountiful bowls to work with you for a mouth-watering midday meal: Harvest Bowl or Reboot Bowl. Enjoy Baked Tilapia with Spicy Tomato-Pineapple Relish or One Skillet Chicken with Tequila-Orange Glaze for dinner.

Try these Spring Superfoods.