Cherrylicious Recipes: Sweet and Savory Cherry Dishes

There's something special about cherries – their vibrant color, sweet-tart taste, and juicy texture make them a favorite in kitchens around the world. Whether you're a baking enthusiast or a novice in the kitchen, cherries offer endless culinary possibilities. From delightful desserts to surprising savory dishes, let's delve into the cherrylicious world and explore recipes that will tantalize your taste buds.

Cherry Delight Tart

Let’s start with something sweet that also showcases the beauty of cherries. This Cherry Delight Tart features a buttery, crisp crust with a creamy, almond-scented filling topped with fresh, tangy cherries.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₃ cup of sugar
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon of salt
• 10 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, diced
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons of cold water
• 3 cups of fresh cherries, pitted
• ¹⁄₃ cup of almond paste
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• ¹⁄₄ cup of granulated sugar
• ¹⁄₄ cup of heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Make the Crust: Combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the egg yolk and water to form the dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
2. Press the dough into a 9-inch tart pan. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Blend almond paste, sugar, cornstarch, and cream until smooth.
4. Arrange cherries on the baked crust. Pour the almond filling over the cherries.
5. Bake again at 375°F for another 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set.
6. Cool: Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing.

🌿 Note: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free mix.

Cherry and Goat Cheese Salad

For those looking for something lighter, yet equally delicious, this cherry and goat cheese salad blends sweet cherries with creamy goat cheese, crisp greens, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Ingredients:

• 5 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup of fresh cherries, halved and pitted
• ¹⁄₃ cup of crumbled goat cheese
• ¹⁄₄ cup of toasted walnuts
• 2 tablespoons of fresh basil, chiffonade

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk together the dressing ingredients.
2. Arrange greens on a platter. Top with cherries, goat cheese, walnuts, and basil.
3. Drizzle with dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

Savory Cherry Sauce

Cherries aren’t just for sweet treats; they make an excellent accompaniment to savory dishes. This savory cherry sauce is perfect for meat lovers.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• ¹⁄₂ cup of red wine
• 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or rosemary for flavor

Instructions:

1. Sauté shallots in butter until translucent.
2. Add cherries and cook until they release their juices.
3. Pour in the wine, allowing it to reduce by half.
4. Add the broth, vinegar, and herbs. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
5. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Chocolate Cherry Truffles

Chocolates and cherries have a timeless pairing, and these chocolate cherry truffles are a testament to that perfect blend.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of dark chocolate, chopped
• ¹⁄₂ cup of heavy cream
• ¹⁄₄ cup of cherry preserves or dried cherries
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon of almond extract
• Cocoa powder or finely chopped nuts for rolling

Instructions:

1. Heat the cream just until it simmers, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
2. Add cherry preserves or dried cherries and almond extract. Stir to combine.
3. Chill until firm, about 2 hours.
4. Scoop, shape into balls, and roll in cocoa powder or nuts.

🍫 Note: For a lighter version, use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.

As we've seen, cherries are incredibly versatile, lending themselves to both sweet and savory dishes. They can elevate simple salads, become the star in elegant desserts, and even complement hearty entrees with their unique flavor profile. Whether you're aiming to impress at a dinner party or seeking new ways to enjoy this seasonal fruit, cherries offer a delightful culinary adventure. Remember, the key to unlocking the best flavors from cherries is to appreciate their natural sweetness and acidity, enhancing them without overpowering their intrinsic charm.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones in these recipes?

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Yes, frozen cherries can be substituted, especially in baked goods or sauces. However, for salads or raw uses, fresh cherries are preferred for texture and flavor.

How do you pit cherries for cooking?

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A cherry pitter is the most effective tool, but you can also use a paperclip or carefully use a paring knife to remove the pit.

Are cherries good for health?

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Cherries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them beneficial for reducing inflammation, aiding sleep, and supporting heart health.