Festive Jewels: The Pomegranate

For me, the pomegranate brings back memories of my children watching a Christmas movie, carefully plucking the seeds of a pomegranate using a toothpick (I’m not sure if it’s the stress of them sitting on a cream sofa or the cuteness overload I remember!) Either way, it kept them entertained for hours!

Although not a UK grown fruit, they are abundant here in the winter, imported mainly from Turkey, Egypt and Spain. With their red, jewel-like seeds, they’re perfectly at home on the Christmas table and they’re surprisingly nutritious.

Pomegranates are packed with goodness: high in fibre and rich in vitamins and antioxidants which help to reduce inflammation and support our metabolic health. They may even aid endurance and recovery after exercise.

My now adult daughter still loves pomegranates and has been encouraging me to use them in sweet dishes as well as savoury. There’s something about them that makes everything sparkle. I sprinkle them over just about everything at this time of year and they bring a touch of glamour to the plate or glass (a teaspoon or two in a glass of prosecco is delicious).

I am a firm believer in starting the day with a nourishing breakfast, particularly at Christmas when indulgence is inevitable. By avoiding an overly sweet start, you help steady your glucose levels and maintain more consistent energy throughout the day.

These Festive Spiced Pomegranate Overnight Oats are a simple make-ahead breakfast which are both quick to prepare and impressive enough to serve if you have guests staying for Christmas.