Living in Sequim means that we get to enjoy the parade of summer fruit grown on local farms: from those first strawberries, on to cherries, raspberries, and blueberries, followed by plums, pears and apples.

There are also the fruits that are not so commonly planted here for commercial production but can be found in backyard gardens and home orchards, not to mention the delicious assortment of native and wild fruit growing along the rivers, creeks and our favorite hiking trails.

While blueberries are native to North America and grow very well in our region, the first commercial crop of cultivated blueberries was sold in New Jersey in 1916. The first blueberry cultivars resulted from a collaboration between New Jersey farmer Elizabeth White, and USDA botanist Frederick Coville.

Now, a little more than 100 years later, blueberries have become a common cultivated fruit harvested from farms for our tables.

There is good reason to indulge in this summer abundance and reap the benefits of these nutritious fruits that provide the full potential of their health benefits when they are consumed raw and freshly harvested.

Blueberries are among the most nutrient dense fruits and vegetables on the Aggregate Nutrient Density Index: a look at their nutrition profile reveals that the powerful antioxidant effect that has created a buzz about blueberries comes from anthocyanins, which are a type of flavonoid responsible for their blue color.

Blueberries also provide a rich source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Vitamin B6, in addition to mineral nutrients including iron, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, potassium and folate. These nutrients contribute to the health of our bones and hearts, with anti-inflammatory properties that aid in disease prevention.

Enjoying blueberries is the easy part. A small bowl of fresh blueberries is the perfect finger-food snack for all ages. Add them to any meal: as a delicious topping on yogurt with granola, or sprinkled over Sunday pancakes with a drizzle of honey.

They are a decadent addition to a green salad, or for dessert with a dollop of whipped cream.

If you hope to bring any home to your kitchen, just be sure to get an extra basket which will surely be gone by the time you walk in your front door.

Blueberries are currently available at the Sequim Farmers Market from Graysmarsh Farm, Emily’s Flowers and Sea Basket Farm.

This Saturday is Senior Appreciation Day! Visit the market booth to receive a $2 coupon which can be used to purchase from any vendor at the market.

Coupons are available while supplies last. This monthly event at the market is made possible by Park View Villas.

Enjoy our summer live music series with the Old Sidekicks performing this week from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

A special thanks to Bell & Davis Law, Brokers Group Real Estate, First Federal Savings & Loan, for supporting the Sequim Farmers Market.

Elli Rose is the Sequim Farmers Market manager. Contact her at manager@sequimmarket.com or 360-582-6218, or see www.sequim market.com.