Sweet, tart, red, orange, purple….one of Michigan’s tastiest crops is ready for eating.  Did you know that up to 75% of the tart cherries grown in the United States come from Michigan?  That makes Michigan the nation’s number one cherry producing state according to Michigan’s Department of Agriculture  The ones pictured above are from my weekend trip north.  We picked up these beauties up at a Kalkaska road side market, a shopping experience we’re spoiled with across the state for several more weeks.  Take advantage of the seasonal, nutritious offerings of nature and share your farm fresh favorite recipes.  Here’s one I’m going to try with some of those cherries:

FRESH CHERRY PARFAIT SALAD  

2 c. fresh sweet cherries
3/4 c. water
1 (3 oz.) pkg. lemon flavored gelatin
1 pt. pineapple sherbet
1/4 c. chopped walnuts
Whole cherries for garnish
Mint sprig for garnish

Pit and slice cherries. Bring water to boil. Stir in gelatin to dissolve. Add sherbet by spoonfuls, stirring until well blended and partially set. Fold cherries into gelatin along with walnuts. Pour into 1 quart mold; chill until firm. Unmold and garnish with whole cherries and mint sprigs. Makes 5-6 servings.  Well drained, canned sweet cherries may be used when fresh cherries are not available. May be prepared early in the morning or a day ahead of time.