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Pomegranate juice

If you enjoy the taste of pomegranates but don't want the hassle of peeling and picking out the many juicy, gem-like seeds, bottled pomegranate juice is the next best thing.

The basics: Fresh pomegranates are seasonal, only available during fall and winter months. But concentrated pomegranate juice is now available conveniently bottled, year-round.

The pomegranate is an ancient fruit believed to have originated in Persia. It is about the size of an orange, with leathery skin ranging from pink to crimson red. The inside houses many juicy seeds that are encased in a white membrane.

Pomegranate juice is similar in taste to cranberry juice, with its sweet-tart flavor. The juice is not only tasty, but coveted for its antioxidant properties. It is also a good source of vitamin C.

Selecting: Pomegranate juice is sold under the label POM by the POM Wonderful company. The juice comes in 16- or 24-ounce sizes, in five flavors -- 100 percent pomegranate, and in mixes with blueberry, cherry, mango and tangerine. The bottle is very distinct, resembling two or three pomegranates stacked on top of each other.

Storing: Pomegranate juice must be refrigerated and should be used within 14 days of opening.

Use: The juice can be enjoyed by itself, but it is a bit concentrated and some may like it better diluted. POM Wonderful suggests a variety of recipes, from vinaigrettes and glazes to dips and desserts. Add pomegranate juice to kick up cocktail drinks and fruit smoothies or use it as a basis for making jellies, chutneys and relishes. See www.pomwonderful.com for ideas.

Where to buy: Look for pomegranate juice in the refrigerated section of the supermarket, near the produce. Prices range from $3 to $5, depending on bottle size. For big drinkers, Safeway sells a 47-ounce bottle for $11.99.