(Family Features) Always the convenient go-to option for snack time, grapes from California also bring great taste, texture and added flair to your favorite dishes.

From the juicy burst of flavor to the vibrant array of beautiful reds, greens and blacks — fresh grapes are a top choice for home cooks and health-conscious eaters alike. While shoppers often choose this tasty fruit for in-between meal snacking, grapes can also boost the “healthy” factor in recipes, while adding bright, beautiful color to salads, entrees and desserts. They can make any of your favorite dishes healthier, and can make already healthy ones taste even better.

California grapes are available May through January. For flavorful, unique ways to add grapes to your meals, visit grapesfromcalifornia.com or facebook.com/grapesfromcalifornia. Or, connect with Grapes from California on pinterest.com/grapesfromCA or twitter.com/grapesfromCA.

Smart snacking

Whether it’s midafternoon or midmorning, reach for grapes whenever you need a quick, convenient snack you can feel good about. They are ready-to-eat with no peeling or coring required. Plus, grapes go where you go — they’re easy to pack along to the office, the game, in a lunch or in the car.

Here are more reasons to feel great about choosing grapes:

One serving (3/4 cup) contains just 90 calories.

Grapes have no fat, cholesterol and virtually no sodium.

They are also a natural source of beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols. In fact, some studies suggest grapes may help support a healthy heart.

Did you know?According to a recent study published in the British Medical Journal, greater consumption of certain whole fruits, particularly grapes, apples and blueberries, is associated with a lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The researchers described the association as “significant.”

Recipe: Grape, Feta and Mint Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 1/3 cups water
• 1 cup red seedless California grapes
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 8 fresh mint leaves, coarsely chopped
• Sliced green onion tops (optional garnish)

Preparation:

1. Rinse quinoa in fine-mesh sieve. Put in medium saucepan with water and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 12 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Remove cover and fluff with fork. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.
2. Stir together quinoa, grapes, cheese, lemon juice and mint in large bowl. Top with green onions, if desired.

4 servings