Looking to add red fruits to your rainbow diet but want to mix it up a bit? Look no further. I have 21 common red fruits, how to use them, and their benefits. In addition, I have included a description of what to look for when buying a fully ripened red fruit.
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What are Red Fruits?
Red fruit is characterized by its exterior red color. Like most fruit, red fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals. The color red signifies the presence of specific nutrients and compounds that offer unique health benefits.
Red fruits contain lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. It also has potential benefits for heart health.
Another property often found in red fruit is anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory properties. Anthocyanins have been associated with improved heart health and cognitive function.
Why Should I Eat Red Fruit?
Health professionals recommend eating fruits and vegetables in different colors as part of a balanced diet. The different colors are a visual reminder to eat foods with nutrient diversity and antioxidants. This is where the team eating the rainbow comes from -- and I don't think nutritionists are referring to Skittles.
Red Core Fruits
- Red Apple
Making the top of the list is red apples. They are popular thanks to their availability, long storage time, and accessibility. Apples come in many varieties, and each type is similar yet different. Popular varieties include red delicious, honey crisp, pink lady, and fuji apples. The colors range from dark burgundy to light red, and the flavor varies. Some apples are better for baking, while others are better for snacks.
However, all apples have fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to healthy digestion and immune support. One medium-sized red apple contains around 4 grams of dietary fiber, which helps promote digestive health, and about 14% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, an antioxidant known to protect against chronic diseases. It is important to note that most of the health benefits are in or just below the skin. Plealing an apple is also peeling away most of the benefits.
- How to know when apples are ripe: Look for firm apples with bright red skin and no signs of bruising or wrinkles. They should have a slightly sweet aroma.
- Peak Season: Year-round, with peak season in the fall.
- Flavor: Crisp, mildly sweet with a hint of tartness.
- Texture: Firm and crunchy.
- Size: Varies depending on the variety, but generally medium-sized.
- Seeds: Typically contain several small seeds.
- Red Pears
Red pears, specifically the Anjou pear variety, have a milder and sweet flavor than their yellow counterparts. They are easily identifiable by their round, slightly bulbous shape and striking deep red skin that may have green speckles. The interior is creamy white and has a crisp, juicy texture that's similar to apples.
Red pears are known for their subtle sweetness with a slightly tart undertone when it comes to taste. They provide an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, and contain essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and copper.
Red Anjou pears can be enjoyed as a snack, added to a salad, or with a charcuterie board. Pears are also popular baked into desserts such as fancy pies or tarts.
- How to know when a red pear is ripe: Gently press the pear near the stem. If it yields slightly, it is ripe. The skin should be smooth and vibrant in color.
- Peak Season: Late summer to early winter
- Flavor: Juicy, sweet, and slightly floral.
- Texture: Smooth and tender, with a creamy mouthfeel.
- Size: Varies depending on the variety, but typically medium to large.
- Seeds: Usually contains several small to medium-sized seeds.
Looking to add more fruit to your diet? Try these recipes
Red Berry Fruits
Red berries are popular thanks to their sweet flavor. In addition, they are healthy and boast numerous benefits, from protecting against chronic diseases to reducing risk factors for heart disease. Red berries also provide a rich source of vitamins, dietary fiber, and bioactive compounds that can support overall health and wellness. (Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26501271/)
- Cranberries
Cranberries are an American holiday tradition. They have a tart taste and can be stored for a long time. Sugar is often added to cranberry products to counterbalance their tart flavor. If you are purchasing a processed cranberry product and watching sugar, check the label for the sugar amount.
Cranberries are considered a superfood thanks to their health benefits. They're packed with a high nutrient and antioxidant content. Cranberries are known for their effectiveness in preventing and treating urinary tract infections (UTIs). The concentrated compounds in cranberries are incredibly effective in combating harmful bacteria and preventing infection. Additionally, cranberries help to strengthen the immune system, regulate blood pressure, and lower the risk of UTIs. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3823508/)
Typically cranberries are used to make sauces, jams, pies, and smoothies. Dried cranberries are popular additions to granola and trail mix. Personally, I love adding them to kale salads for a touch of sweetness.
- How to know when cranberries are ripe: Ripe cranberries are firm and have a deep red color.
- Flavor: Tart and slightly acidic.
- Texture: Firm and crisp, with waxy outer skin.
- Size: Small berries, typically around 0.4 to 0.6 inches (10-15 mm) in diameter.
- Seeds: Small seeds are present inside the berries.
- Lingonberry
Lingonberry, also known as the mountain cranberry, is a small berry that originated in the Nordic countries. The lingonberry has been a staple in Scandinavian cuisine for centuries. Nowadays, lingonberries are also grown in other regions of the world, including Canada and the United States.
Lingonberries are typically smaller than cranberries, measuring around 6-10mm in diameter. They have a tangy and slightly tart flavor with a hint of sweetness. Cranberries, on the other hand, tend to be more tart and less sweet.
Lingonberries are often enjoyed the same way cranberries are, in sauces, jams, etc.
- How to know when lingonberries are ripe: Lingonberries are usually harvested when fully ripe, so they are ready to eat upon purchase.
- Season: Late summer to early fall.
- Flavor: Tart and slightly sweet, similar to cranberries.
- Texture: Small, round berries with a soft, slightly crunchy texture.
- Size: Small berries, typically around 0.3 to 0.4 inches (8-10 mm) in diameter.
- Seeds: Tiny seeds are present in the berries.
- Red Grapes
Red grapes are believed to have originated in North America but are now primarily grown in South America, Europe, and Asia. They are so common that red grapes are easily found in most grocery stores. They have a sweet flavor and make a perfect snack or dessert.
Red grapes are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can improve one's immunity and cholesterol levels. They contain high amounts of vitamin C and vitamin K. In addition to this, red grapes are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to prevent various chronic diseases.
One of the most significant health benefits of red grapes is their rich content of anthocyanins, an antioxidant compound that has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in the body. This can help to prevent heart disease, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.
Red grapes are perfect on their own, on cheese boards, and I throw them into salads for a pop of sweetness. However, red grapes are toxic to dogs. So no matter how much they beg, don't share.
- How to know when red grapes are ripe: Grapes should have a uniform color, be plump, and be firmly attached to the stem. Avoid wrinkled or mushy grapes.
- Peak Season: Summer to early fall.
- Flavor: Sweet and juicy, with a hint of tartness.
- Texture: Firm, crisp skin with a juicy pulp inside.
- Size: Varies depending on the variety, but typically small to medium-sized.
- Seeds: Most commonly, red grapes are seedless, but some varieties may have small, edible seeds.
- Raspberries
Raspberries are originally from Turkey but are now grown in many countries worldwide. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, quercetin, ellagic acid, and gallic acid, all of which can contribute to various health benefits.
Raspberries are packed with antioxidants and contain nutrients that promote healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, making them an excellent addition to a heart-healthy diet. Research has also suggested that raspberries may have anti-cancer properties, thanks partly to their high levels of ellagic acid and other compounds.
Raspberries are perfect as a snack in desserts, sauces, and jams.
- How to know when raspberries are ripe: Ripe raspberries are deep red in color and easily detach from the stem when gently pulled.
- Peak Season: Summer to early fall
- Flavor: Sweet and tangy.
- Texture: Soft and delicate, with a slightly grainy surface.
- Size: Small berries, typically around 0.6 to 1 inch (15-25 mm) in length.
- Seeds: Raspberries have many small seeds that are consumed along with the fruit.
- Red Currants
Red currants, sometimes spelled as one word, are small, tart-sweet berries commonly used in Northern European cuisine. They have a bright, vibrant red color and a unique flavor that is both tangy and sweet. You can purchase fresh or dried red currents. However, the latter is much easier to find locally. If you are looking for fresh redcurrants, you might need to special order them.
Red currants are nutritious and particularly high in vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. This vitamin also acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from damaging free radicals.
In Turkish and Meditereeian cuisine, red currents are a fun addition to grape leaves. I also like them mixed with salads or as part of a cheese and fruit charcuterie board.
- How to know when red currants are ripe: Ripe red currants are bright red and firm to the touch.
- Peak Season: Summer to early fall
- Flavor: Tart and slightly sweet.
- Texture: Small, round berries with firm skin and juicy flesh.
- Size: Small berries, typically around 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5-10 mm) in diameter.
- Seeds: Small seeds are present inside the berries.
- Strawberries
Strawberries are a favorite fruit around the world. A typical strawberry at its peak has a sweet and juicy flavor. There are many types of strawberries, including the wild strawberry, which has a smaller size and a more intense flavor, and the alpine strawberries (fraises des bois), which have a delicate taste.
Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C, with one cup of strawberries providing over 100% of the recommended daily intake. In addition, strawberries contain fiber, folate, and potassium, which are important for heart health and reducing the risk of stroke. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27761543/)
Strawberries are used in many ways, often creative. Bakers put them in bread, cakes, and muffins. They can also be used as a topping for oatmeal or mixed into smoothies for an extra burst of sweetness. I love strawberries added to salads.
- How to know when strawberries are ripe Look for bright red color, glossy skin, and sweet aroma. The berries should be firm but not too hard.
- Flavor: Sweet, juicy, and slightly tart.
- Texture: Soft and succulent, with small seeds on the outer surface.
- Size: Varies depending on the variety, but typically small to medium-sized.
- Seeds: Strawberries have many small seeds on the outer surface.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes might seem strange on this list because they are often mistaken as a vegetable. However, tomatoes are actually fruits. While tomatoes come in various shapes and colors, red tomatoes are the most well-known and commonly used.
Tomatoes are rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes have high levels of vitamin C. They also contain potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure and promote healthy heart function. Their consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3850026/)
- How to know when tomatoes are ripe: Ripe tomatoes should have vibrant red skin, be slightly soft to the touch, and give off a sweet, earthy aroma.
- Peak Season: Summer to early fall
- Flavor: Juicy, tangy, and slightly sweet.
- Texture: Smooth and juicy, with a soft interior and thin, delicate skin.
- Size: Varies depending on the variety, ranging from small cherry tomatoes to large beefsteak tomatoes.
- Seeds: Numerous small seeds are present in the pulp.
Red Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits include lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits. Citrus fruits usually have a tangy or tart.
Although citrus fruits have a reputation for being an excellent source of vitamin C, they also contain various other nutrients, such as potassium, folic acid, and fiber.
- Blood Limes
Blood Limes are known for their unique crimson peel and deeply read interior. The blood lime is a hybrid between the red finger lime and the 'Ellendale Mandarin' orange. Their flavor is tart and slightly sweet, which makes them versatile.
Blood limes have a high concentration of vitamin C. They are grown predominantly in subtropical Australia and California. Blood limes are typically used for garnishes, preserves, syrups, and beverages.
How to know when blood limes are ripe: Blood limes are usually harvested when they turn deep red or maroon in color.
- Peak Season: Year-round
- Flavor: Tart and tangy, with a hint of sweetness.
- Texture: Juicy and pulpy, with thin skin.
- Size: Similar to regular limes, but slightly smaller.
- Seeds: Blood limes typically contain a few small seeds.
- Red Grapefruit
Red and traditional grapefruit are very similar; the red variety has a slightly sweeter flavor. Enjoy red grapefruit the same way you would enjoy traditional grapefruit; raw, in smoothies, jams, and sauces.
Red grapefruit also contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and carotenoids, which are known for their antioxidant properties. The benefits of consuming red grapefruit include cholesterol-lowering effects, improved heart health, and a decreased risk of chronic diseases.
- How to know when red grapefruit is ripe Look for grapefruits with a vibrant red or pink hue and feel heavy for their size.
- Peak Season: Winter to early spring
- Flavor: Sweet, tangy, and slightly bitter.
- Texture: Juicy and fibrous with a slightly grainy texture.
- Size: Medium to large-sized citrus fruit.
- Seeds: Red grapefruits may have a few small seeds.
Red Melons
Melons are a fruit with a sweet taste and a high water content. Fruits in this category include watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew.
Melons are also a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. They are known to benefit heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension and urinary tract infections.
- Watermelon
Watermelons are known for their sweet, juicy flavor and high water content. In the United States, a slice of watermelon is synonymous with picnics and hot summer days.
Watermelons are high in lycopene. Research shows that regular consumption of watermelon can help lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
In addition to lycopene, watermelon is packed with other nutrients such as manganese, iron, calcium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, and beta-carotene. These nutrients help improve bone and skin health, support the immune system, and aid in muscle and nerve function.
- How to know when watermelons are ripe: Tap them; if it sounds hollow, it is likely ripe. The underside should have a creamy yellow spot.
- Peak Season: Summer
- Flavor: Sweet, refreshing, and mildly juicy.
- Texture: Juicy, crisp, and slightly grainy.
- Size: Watermelons can vary greatly in size, from small to large.
- Seeds: Some watermelon varieties are seedless, while others may contain small, edible seeds.
Red Fruits with Pits
Cherries, plums, and peaches are popular red fruits with pits. These fruits are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins C, K, and A, and minerals like potassium, iron, and magnesium.
The consumption of red fruits with pits has been linked to reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Additionally, these fruits also aid in maintaining gut health, supporting the immune system, and improving brain function.
- Cherries
Red cherries are native to Europe and Asia, but North America is the largest producer. There are different types of cherries, including sweet and tart varieties. Sweet cherries are usually eaten fresh, while tart cherries are often used in cooking or canning. Cherries are known for their sweet taste, popular in desserts like pies and ice cream.
However, cherries also pack a powerful nutritional punch. They contain antioxidant compounds and bioactive compounds such as anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming cherries regularly can offer health benefits such as improving heart health, reducing inflammation, and contributing to overall antioxidant properties in the body. (Source:https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-tart-cherry-juice-benefits)
- How to know when cherries are ripe Look for cherries with deep red or mahogany color and firm, plump skin.
- Peak Season: Late spring to early summer
- Flavor: Sweet and tangy, with slight acidity.
- Texture: Juicy and firm, with smooth skin.
- Size: Small, bite-sized fruit.
- Seeds: Cherries typically contain a hard, central pit.
- Red Plums
Red plums are juicy fruits packed with dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C, folic acid, and potassium, making them a great option for those looking to boost their health.
There are several different types of red plums, each with their own unique qualities. For instance, Japanese plums have a deep red color and a sweet, juicy taste, while European plums have a slightly tart flavor and a firmer texture.
When it comes to appearance, red plums are typically small to medium-sized with smooth, shiny skin that ranges in color from light red to deep purple. The inside can range from yellow to deep red.
Red plums are great as a snack, jams, or baked pies and cakes. They can be made into sauces that taste great on top of grilled tofu.
- How to know when plumbs are ripe Plums should have vibrant red or purple skin, yield slightly to gentle pressure, and have a sweet aroma.
- Flavor: Juicy, sweet, and slightly tart.
- Texture: Firm yet tender, with smooth skin and juicy flesh.
- Size: Varies depending on the variety, but typically medium-sized.
- Seeds: Red plums contain a single hard seed or stone in the center
Red Catus Fruit
Red Cactus Fruits are widely grown in North and South America. The flavors can be surprisingly sweet.
- Prickly Pear
Prickly Pear, also known as cactus fruit, is typically found in North and South America. They are most commonly grown in Mexico and the southwestern regions of the United States.
Aside from its distinct appearance with its spiky exterior and bright colors, Prickly Pear is also known for its nutritional benefits. It's a rich source of fiber, essential vitamins C and E, and minerals such as calcium and iron. These nutrients make it a great addition to any diet, especially for those looking to boost their immune system and improve bone health.
In terms of taste, Prickly Pear has a sweet and floral flavor that has been compared to a mix of watermelon and bubble gum. It's commonly consumed as juice or blended into smoothies but can also be eaten raw.
Cutting into a prickly pear might seem strange at first. Here is how you do it, cut off the exterior spikes, then cut the pear into slices or quarters. The seeds are edible but can be quite hard.
- How to know when a prickly pear is ripe Prickly pears should have a deep red or purple color and yield slightly when pressed gently.
- Flavor: Sweet, with hints of watermelon and pear.
- Texture: Firm yet tender, slightly grainy due to tiny seeds.
- Size: Medium-sized fruit with an oblong or pear-like shape.
- Seeds: Prickly pears contain numerous small, edible seeds.
- Red Dragon Fruit
Red dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, originates from South America. Dragon fruit is considered a superfruit packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants.
Red dragon fruit is a rich source of vitamin C, vital for the immune system, and antioxidants that help prevent oxidative stress. It also contains a high fiber content which can help lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood pressure, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Dragon fruit is popularly blended into smoothies and shakes. You can also use it in desserts like sorbets, ice cream, or fruit tarts. Starbucks lovers like me love dragon fruit as part of the mango dragonfruit refresher.
- How to know when red dragon fruit is ripe: Look for vibrant red or magenta skin color with a slight give when pressed.
- Flavor: Mildly sweet and subtly tropical.
- Texture: Creamy and smooth, similar to a kiwi.
- Size: Medium-sized fruit with a unique, scaly appearance.
- Seeds: Red dragon fruit contains numerous tiny, edible seeds.
- Cutting: Learn how to cut dragon fruit
Tropical Red Fruits
Tropical red fruits are a source of essential vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that promote health in countless ways. These crimson-hued fruits are packed with various nutrients, helping fend off chronic diseases while keeping you hydrated and energized. Sweet, tart, and tangy flavors are a perfect addition to your daily diet, whether you eat them whole or blend and drink them as a smoothie. From the health benefits of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and folic acid to the antioxidant properties found in anthocyanins, tropical red fruits contain many vital compounds that improve heart health, lower cholesterol levels, boost your mood, and support your immune system.
- Caribbean Red Papaya
The Caribbean Red Papaya is a tropical red fruit with an otter yellowish-orange skin. But don't let the exterior fool you, the interior is red.
Caribbean Red Papaya is a rich source of healthy carbs, fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin A, making it an excellent option for a healthy breakfast or snack. It helps to boost immunity, support eye health, and aid digestion. The fruit’s high fiber content also helps to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- How to know when Caribbean red papaya is ripe: Caribbean red papayas should have bright orange-red skin and yield to gentle pressure at the stem end.
- Flavor: Sweet, tropical, and slightly tangy.
- Texture: Soft and smooth, with juicy flesh.
- Size: Large, elongated fruit with a pear-like shape.
- Seeds: Caribbean red papayas have numerous black, round seeds clustered in the central cavity.
- Goji Berries
While Goji berries have become popular in the last 10 -15 years, they have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. This exotic fruit packs a punch with a high content of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, fiber, iron, and antioxidants like zeaxanthin and lycopene. It also contains all eight essential amino acids and a range of non-essential amino acids, making it a great source of protein for vegetarians and vegans.
Apart from its impressive nutritional value, Goji berries are also known for their unique texture and taste. They have a chewy texture, like dried cranberries or raisins, and a mildly sweet taste with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
Some popular dishes that use Goji berries include Goji berry granola, Goji berry trail mix, and Goji berry chia seed pudding. With its nutritional benefits and versatile consumption options, Goji berries are a great addition to any healthy diet.
- How to know when goji berries are ripe: Goji berries are usually harvested when fully ripe and have a bright red or orange color.
- Flavor: Sweet and slightly tangy, with a hint of bitterness.
- Texture: Chewy and slightly dried, similar to raisins.
- Size: Small berries, typically around 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5-10 mm) in diameter.
- Seeds: Goji berries contain small, edible seeds.
- Lychee (Litchi chinensis)
Lychee fruit, also known as Litchi chinensis, originated in China and is widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and parts of Africa. They have a hard, bumpy outer shell with a red color and a distinctive sweet taste. Although their white flesh may not seem like a red fruit, it has a reddish tint when fully ripe.
Lychee fruit is a rich source of potassium dietary fiber which helps regulate digestion and prevents constipation.
It's important to note that lychees should be fully ripened before consumption, as consuming unripe lychees can cause hypoglycemia and even lead to death. Fully ripened lychees have a sweet aroma and are slightly soft to the touch.
- How to know when lychee is ripe: Look for lychees with vibrant red skin that is easily peelable and soft to the touch.
- Flavor: Sweet, floral, and tropical.
- Texture: Juicy and tender, with a firm yet slippery texture.
- Size: Small to medium-sized fruit, roughly the size of a golf ball.
- Seeds: Lychees have a large seed in the center that is not edible.
- Pomegranates
Pomegranates are a unique red fruit originating in the Middle East but are now widely grown in North America and Europe. The exterior has a hard, leathery skin that encases small, juicy seeds called vibrant red or pink arils.
Pomegranates are rich in nutrients and antioxidants, making them a superfood. They contain high potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and zinc levels, making them incredibly beneficial for heart health, blood pressure regulation, and immunity boost.
Enjoy pomegranates on their own or in salads, smoothies, or sauces.
- How to know when pomegranates are ripe: Pomegranates should have a deep red or reddish-brown color and feel heavy for their size.
- Flavor: Sweet, tangy, and slightly tart.
- Texture: Firm and crunchy arils (juicy seed sacs) surrounded by a fibrous membrane.
- Size: Medium-sized fruit, similar to an apple.
- Seeds: Pomegranates contain numerous edible seeds called arils
- Red Banana
Red bananas are a unique and flavorful fruit that is gaining popularity as a dessert ingredient and smoothie addition. While they share some similarities with the more common yellow bananas, red bananas have a distinct taste and appearance that sets them apart.
Red bananas are slightly smaller and have thicker skin than yellow bananas. The banana is also firmer and sweeter, with a hint of raspberry flavor.
Red bananas hold their shape well and are great for baking.
One of the key benefits of red bananas is their higher antioxidant content. They contain more of the antioxidant compounds that are important for fighting oxidative stress in the body. In addition, red bananas are a rich source of vitamin C and beta-carotene, which are essential for immune function and healthy skin.
- How to know when red bananas are ripe: Red bananas should have a deep red or maroon color with no green hues and feel slightly soft to the touch.
- Flavor: Sweet and creamy, with a hint of berry undertones.
- Texture: Soft and smooth, with a custard-like consistency.
- Size: Medium-sized bananas that are shorter and plumper than yellow bananas.
- Seeds: Red bananas may contain a few small seeds.
- Red Mango
Red Mango is a tropical fruit known for its creamy texture and sweet flavor. Several different varieties of red mango are sold in stores. Generally, they all taste the same.
Red Mango is known for its wide range of health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, and promoting heart health. It is also a good source of dietary fiber that prevents chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Mangos are perfect in smoothies, as sorbet, or on their own. Mangos are probably my favorite fruit, and many mango recipes are on my blog.
- How to know when red mangos are ripe: Mangoes should have vibrant red or orange skin with no green undertones and yield to gentle pressure.
- Flavor: Sweet, tropical, and juicy.
- Texture: Smooth and fibrous, with succulent flesh.
- Size: Varies depending on the variety, but typically medium-sized.
- Seeds: Red mangoes have a flat, elongated seed in the center.
- Red Passion Fruit
Red Passion fruit is from South America, and the flavor is unique flavor of sweet and sour. The flavor can be compared to a golden kiwi. The interior of passion fruits has lots of seeds mixed in with the pulp, all of which are edible.
Passion fruit is an antioxidant that can help promote healthy skin, hair, and nails while improving eye and cell health.
Passion fruit is popular on its own or mixed into other foods like ice cream, sorbet, and margaritas.
- How to know when red passionfruit is ripe: Passion fruits should have a deep purple or reddish skin and feel slightly wrinkled.
- Flavor: Tangy, tropical, and subtly sweet.
- Texture: Gelatinous pulp filled with edible seeds.
- Size: Small, oval-shaped fruit.
- Seeds: Passion fruits contain numerous small, crunchy seeds.
Red Fruit Quick Glance Chart (Cheat Sheet)
I have covered a lot of information. But if you want to get down and dirty, this chart will help you quickly gather the necessary information. If you want to add yellow fruits to your diet, check out this post about 16 healthy yellow fruits.
| Fruit | How to Know When Ripe | Flavor | Texture | Size | Seasonal Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood Limes | Deep red or maroon color | Tart and tangy | Juicy and pulpy | Similar to limes | Year-round |
| Caribbean Red Papaya | Bright orange-red skin, gentle pressure at the stem end | Sweet, tropical, slightly tangy | Soft and smooth | Large | Year-round |
| Cherries | Deep red or mahogany color, firm and plump skin | Sweet and tangy | Juicy and firm | Small | Late spring to early summer |
| Cranberries | Firm texture, deep red color | Tart and slightly acidic | Firm and crisp | Small berries | Fall to winter |
| Goji Berries | Bright red or orange color when fully ripe | Sweet and slightly tangy with a hint of bitterness | Chewy and slightly dried | Small berries | Year-round |
| Lingonberry | Fully ripe when harvested | Tart and slightly sweet | Small and soft | Small berries | Late summer to early fall |
| Lychee (Litchi chinensis) | Vibrant red skin, easily peelable | Sweet, floral, tropical | Juicy and tender | Small to medium | Summer |
| Pomegranates | Deep red or reddish-brown color, heaviness | Sweet, tangy, slightly tart | Firm and crunchy | Medium | Fall to winter |
| Prickly Pear | Deep red or purple color, slight softness | Sweet, hints of watermelon and pear | Firm yet tender | Medium | Late summer to early fall |
| Raspberries | Deep red color, easy detachment from the stem | Sweet and tangy | Soft and delicate | Small berries | Summer to early fall |
| Red Apple | Bright red color, slightly sweet aroma, firm texture | Crisp, mildly sweet with a hint of tartness | Firm and crunchy | Medium-sized | Year-round, with peak season in fall |
| Red Banana | Deep red or maroon color, slight softness | Year-round, with peak season in the fall | Soft and smooth | Medium | Year-round |
| Red Dragon Fruit | Vibrant red or magenta skin, slight give when pressed | Mildly sweet, subtly tropical | Creamy and smooth | Medium | Year-round |
| Red Grapefruit | Vibrant red or pink color, heaviness | Sweet, tangy, slightly bitter | Juicy and fibrous | Medium to large | Winter to early spring |
| Red Grapes | Uniform color, plump and firm | Sweet and juicy, slightly tart | Firm and crisp skin | Small to medium | Summer to early fall |
| Red Mango | Vibrant red or orange skin, slight softness | Sweet, tropical, juicy | Smooth and fibrous | Varies | Summer |
| Red Pear | Gentle pressing near the stem, smooth and vibrant skin | Juicy, sweet, slightly floral | Smooth and tender | Medium to large | Late summer to early winter |
| Red Plum | Red or purple skin, slight give when pressed | Juicy, sweet, slightly tart | Firm yet tender | Varies | Late spring to early fall |
| Redcurrant | Bright red color, firm texture | Tart and slightly sweet | Firm and juicy | Small berries | Summer to early fall |
| Strawberries | Bright red color, glossy skin, sweet aroma | Sweet, juicy, slightly tart | Soft and succulent | Small to medium | Late spring to early summer |
| Tomato | Vibrant red color, slight softness, sweet aroma | Juicy, tangy, slightly sweet | Smooth and juicy | Varies | Summer to early fall |
| Watermelon | Hollow sound when tapped, creamy yellow spot | Sweet, refreshing, mildly juicy | Juicy and crisp | Varies | Summer |
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