Did you know? All over the world, there are approximately 2,000 types of fruit – according to a quick Google search. When I think about it, I’ve probably only tasted about 2% of these! This got me thinking then, of those fruits that I have tasted, what are my favourites and why?

1. Melon

I adore melon, especially Galia melon. When perfectly ripe, melons are super juicy and delicious. They are packed with vitamin C and fibre (like a lot of fruits), making them the perfect snack to enjoy. Melons are a delicious starter, especially at Christmas. They are light and refreshing before the heavier main course arrives.

2. Oranges

I would eat oranges all day every day. Large oranges, little oranges, I love them all – so long as they are juicy. Blood oranges are super tasty. They remind me of grapefruit (which I don’t like) in their colouring but their taste is very much that of an orange. Probably the most commonly associated fruit with vitamin C, one medium orange contains almost your full RDA (recommended daily allowance). If you like oranges, there’s probably no need to be taking vitamin C supplements too.

3. Raspberries

Perfect little pink treats. I adore raspberries. I would happily eat them from the bowl with nothing else but I also love to pop a few on top of my overnight oats or sometimes if I have a big supply I will make a chia jam. Like most other fruits that are red in colour, raspberries are packed with vitamin C. The little seeds are a source of fibre – although not recommend if you have colitis as the seeds can trigger a flare up.

4. Bananas

Someone once told me that bananas are fattening. I couldn’t be held back. I was shocked that such misinformation could exist about the humble banana. While bananas may have more calories than apples or berries, for example, they certainly are not fattening. A banana in fact is virtually fat free. I love bananas because they are so versatile. They are perfect on the go, an excellent snack before a run or gym class and of course, once they go a little spotty they are PERFECT for making smoothies and banana bread.

5. Strawberries

I have eaten so many strawberries in one sitting before that I caused an oral allergy reaction and my lips went all tingly, that’s how much I love strawberries. In Ireland, strawberries are in season from around mid-March until the end of September. Outside of the season, I love to use frozen strawberries to make smoothie bowls or to add to my autumnal apple crumble. Similar to raspberries, strawberries are a great source of vitamin C and fibre but might not be suitable for those who have colitis.