Mango Loquat Salsa is the Perfect Start to Summer!

During my most recent trip to our local farmer’s market, a gorgeous fruit caught my eye–the loquat! The overflowing basket was destined to be mine because 1) it was organic and 2) these beauties were ripe for the eating. It didn’t matter that I had absolutely no clue what I would make with the loquats; their bold, bright yellow hue was irresistible. Little did I know, until a quick fact check, that loquats are enormously rich in vitamin A, high in fiber (this aides the digestion tract..think easy elimination), high in antioxidants, phytonutrients and potassium. Not a bad deal! Below I share the health benefits of loquats, plus I offer a gorgeous summer loquat salsa recipe that will leave you wishing loquats grew all-year-around.

All About Loquats

Low in calories, the loquat also contains minerals like manganese, magnesium, iron, copper and folate, all of which maintain proper blood pressure. Because of the high amounts of vitamin A, which is an antioxidant, this makes it very helpful with anti-aging and healthy vision. Anti-aging?…sign me up! More amazing benefits of loquats include: enhancing skin health, protection of bone mineral density, improving vision, strengthening the immune system, protection from colon cancer, soothing the respiratory tracts, boosting circulation and maintaining blood pressure.

As for the taste, loquats have a tangy, yet sweet taste and are similar to the flavor and texture of a pear. With one bite you will notice loquats are superbly soft and juicy. They also have a sweet, pleasant aroma, which definitely sets the mood for cooking. With a yellow to orange skin surface, loquats are fuzzy but smooth to the touch. Inside, the flesh is either white or golden-yellow depending on the type. Each fruit contains 3-5, centrally placed large, brown seeds. Do not eat the seeds as they are inedible, and can be toxic if consumed. Please watch your children while they are eating them or better yet, remove the seeds before serving.

Here is an amazing recipe to enjoy fresh loquats…

Mango Loquat Salsa

Ingredients:

• 6-8 cherry tomatoes
• 1/3 c. cilantro
• 2 tbs. of lime or lemon juice
• 8-10 loquats (pear or pineapple can be subsititued depending on season)
• 1/2 mango cubed
• 1/4 c. red onion
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 c. chopped cilantro
• salt and pepper to liking
• optional: cayenne pepper for a little spice

Directions:

1. Chop all ingredients and combine together in a medium bowl
2. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and cayenne

This salsa would pair nicely atop a piece of wild Atlantic cod or salmon, on top of a beautiful leafy green salad or more simply with some grain-free Siete chips. And don’t forget the avocado on the side. Mango loquat salsa is truly a gorgeousl dish meant to be enjoyed on a hot summer day!

In divine health,

Kristin

xoxo

References:

Organic Facts. “Health Benefits of Loquat.” https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/loquat.html

“Loquat Fruit Nutrition Facts.” http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/loquat-fruit.html

Kevat, D. (2013). Fitness World. “8 Health Benefits of Loquat Fruit and Nutrition Facts–Loquat Fruit.” http://wiki-fitness.com/loquat-fruit-health-benefits/