‘Tis the season for pomegranates! Ring in the New Year with this delicious, unique fruit perfect for a salad, dessert, cocktail — or even just by itself. This fun, multifaceted fruit stops ripening as soon as they are picked, making them perfect for the holidays, as they store for up to 2-3 months in the fridge uncut! Plus, the benefits of pomegranates are undeniable!

The word “pomegranate” originates from the medieval Latin words “pomum granatum“, directly translating to “seeded apple.” But don’t eat these like your traditional granny smiths! This incredible fruit has a gorgeous, leathery exterior that protects the real gold: its juicy seeds! Find the perfect pomegranate in your local grocery store by looking for one that has a smooth, shiny, bright exterior and feels heavy when you pick it up. The bigger, brighter and heavier — the better!

To prepare a pomegranate, simply cut it in half and hold it over a large bowl. With your hand or kitchen utensil, start tapping the skin side and watch the seeds fall into place! One pomegranate can actually hold up to 1,000 seeds; so for those harder to reach seeds, pick them out gently with your fingers before discarding the leftover peel. If you’re strapped for time, most grocery stores now also carry ready-to-eat seeds in the packaged fruit section!

Not only are pomegranates fun to prepare and eat, but they are also packed with great health benefits. Loaded with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, pomegranates can be used to promote dental health, improve skin quality and help boost immunity. This superfood is also said to help naturally protect against osteoarthritis ailments, nausea, heart problems and even certain cancers.

If we haven’t sold you yet, this fruit has a delicious, tart taste and is versatile with its uses! Pomegranates are a perfect addition to any of your dishes or drinks, both for color and for flavor. The plethora of pomegranate inspired recipes are never-ending. Sprinkle some of the juicy seeds on a salad, use the juice to baste your chicken, create a unique jam or salsa, or throw them into your morning smoothie for an added kick. You can’t go wrong no matter how you use them — so definitely don’t take them for (pome)granted!