I know everyone associates places like Maine with blueberries, but in my little corner of southern New Jersey, blueberries are the thing! A little known fact about New Jersey: we are the 5th largest grower of blueberries in the country, producing 66.7 million pounds a year [ref]. Apparently the soil, weather and geographic location are perfect for these summer fruits. NJ blueberries are so plentiful this time of year that residents can snap them up for great prices at local markets.
I love to take advantage of produce like blueberries when they’re at their peak. I come away with a good 6 pints every time I visit the farmer’s market, knowing I’ll make short work of the little berries. Whether it’s good ole blueberry pancakes or less traditional recipes, here are just a few of my blueberry faves to enjoy throughout the day.
For breakfast…
Blueberry Coconut Baked Oatmeal - I made this treat over the weekend with a couple modifications (left out hemp seeds and switched out brown sugar for date honey) - so delish and relatively healthy!
Blueberry Sunrise Smoothie - A unique twist on the traditional blueberry-banana smoothie, this one also features fried eggs for a punch of protein.
Greek Yogurt Pancakes (with Blueberries) - These pancakes have become my family’s go-to recipe. We almost always have Greek yogurt in the house and the combinations are endless. We love adding blueberries to ours, of course, and usually double the recipe for two people so there are a few leftovers.
For an afternoon snack…
Blueberry Zucchini Bread - A delicious favorite with a fruity twist!
For dinner…
Grilled Chicken with Blueberry-Basil Salsa - Blueberry salsa? Yes please! A delicious way to enjoy grilled chicken.
Barbecued Salmon with Fresh Nectarine Salsa - This barbecued salmon with summer fruit is seriously a-ma-zing. It’s fast to put together and became an immediate favorite in my household. No leftovers here!
Grilled Pork Skewers with Blueberry Barbecue Sauce - While I haven’t actually tried this one yet, it’s definitely on my list! The recipe also recommends serving it with blueberry corn salad, so pick up some sweet corn with your blueberries.
For dessert…
Whole Wheat Chocolate-Blueberry Cake - I’ve brought this to parties a few times and it’s always a hit!
Skillet-Cooked Mixed-Berry Grunt - This dessert is cooked up in a skillet combining fruit stew and a fluffy dough dumplings. Although this recipe calls for a cast-iron skillet, you can make it in a regular frying pan on your stovetop.
Pear and Blueberry Crisp - You can’t have fruity dessert recipes without at least one crisp. This combination with pears is delish.