Why Pineapple is Good For You

Monish Gujral, owner of the Moti Mahal chain, is a restaurateur, chef and food writer. He talks about his love for pineapples and why we should eat them more often.Pineapples have a typical musky tropical flavour. I've always loved pineapples for their versatility which can be used in salads, punches, cocktails, main dishes and even desserts. Pineapples pack a tremendous nutritional punch, containing vitamins A,C, E, and K, potassium, calcium, electrolytes and phyto-nutrients like carotene. They are a rich source of anti-oxidants. They fight against free radicals in the body, preventing cell damage. These anti-oxidants help protect you from diseases like atherosclerosis, heart diseases, arthritis and various cancers. Besides, the fruit prevents colds, improves the eyesight, develops healthy gums, builds strong bones, prevents muscular degeneration, aids digestion and boosts the immune system.With its cap of spiky, green leaves and golden orange skin, pineapples have a unique appearance. Interestingly, a single pineapple is, in fact, a collection of multiple fruits; each one is the fruit of an individual blossom. Pineapples are available the year-round in local markets.For the love of fruity flavours, I liberally use pineapples in my preparations. Here are three great recipes to create with this tropical wonder.Pine CoolerJuice of a ripe pineapple
1 Tbsp Lemon
1 Tbsp Ginger juice
Salt to taste
Mint leaves for garnishMix all the ingredients together and serve chilled, garnished with mint leaves Alternatively you can mix 1/4 of the glass with soda and 3/4th with the juice mixture for some fizz.
Pineapple and Feta Salad1 cup Pineapple cubes
3 Tbsp Feta cheese
2 Tbsp Peanuts
Salt to taste
1/2 tsp Red chilli flakes
1 Tbsp Lemon
1 Tbsp Sugar
1 tsp Mustard powderMix all the ingredients together and rub well so that the feta is evenly spread on the pineapple cubes. Serve chilled.
Pineapple Halwa1 helping Grated pineapple
1 cup Khoya
2 tsp Raisins
1/2 cup Sugar
1 tsp Cardamom powder
1/2 cup OilIn a pan, heat the oil and stir-fry pineapple for 5-10 minutes. Add khoya and continuously stir-fry till all is blended well. Now add the other ingredients, stirring for few minutes. Serve hot.