8 Healthy Facts About Grapes

Our guide to the origins, health benefits, and varieties of grapes -- plus a delicious recipe for Grilled Shrimp and Grape Salad.

By Chloe Thompson
WebMD Magazine - Feature

Reviewed by Kathleen M. Zelman, MPH, RD, LD

Grape Origins

Spanish explorers introduced the fruit to America about 300 years ago.

Grapes Are Berries!

Yes, grapes are a kind of berry. They have a leathery covering and a fleshy inside, similar to blueberries.

The Grape Family

There are more than 8,000 grape varieties from about 60 species. The main types are American and European.

Grape Nutrition

One cup of grapes, with about 100 calories, provides more than a quarter of the daily recommended values of vitamins K and C. Grape seeds, which are edible, are chock-full of antioxidants.

Grapes Into Wine

It takes about 2.5 pounds of grapes to make one bottle of wine.

Grapes Into Raisins

Raisins are dried, sweet grapes. The drying occurs naturally when the grapes are left in sunlight.

Origins of Concord Grapes

These plump blue grapes get their name from Concord, MA, where they were developed. They have a distinctive taste and can survive colder climates.

Grape Colors

Grapes come in many colors, including green, red, black, yellow, pink, and purple. "White" grapes are actually green.

Healthy Recipe: Grilled Shrimp and Grape Salad

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

Dressing

2 Tbsp Champagne or white balsamic vinegar

2 tsp olive oil

¾ tsp Dijon mustard

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp ground pepper

Salad

cooking spray

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 Tbsp chopped walnuts

1 cup shelled edamame

4 cups washed arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens

1 cup seedless green grapes, halved

1 cup seedless red or black grapes, halved

1 large yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

¼ cup fresh tarragon, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

2 Tbsp crumbled goat cheese

¼ cup sliced green onions

Directions

1. To prepare dressing, combine first five ingredients in a jar or blender; process until smooth.
2. Preheat grill or griddle to medium high. Spray with cooking spray. Grill shrimp 2–3 minutes per side with grill cover closed.
3. Preheat toaster oven to 350°F. Spread walnut pieces on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake walnuts for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes, until just toasted.
4. Combine edamame and 3 Tbsp water in a bowl; cover with plastic wrap. Steam edamame in microwave on high 3 minutes. Let stand 2 minutes; drain.
5. Place shrimp, greens, grapes, edamame, yellow pepper, and tarragon in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing; toss gently to coat. Garnish salad with goat cheese, walnuts, and green onions.

Per serving: 335 calories, 31 g protein, 25 g carbohydrate, 13 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 176 mg cholesterol, 4 g fiber, 14 g sugar, 372 mg sodium. Calories from fat: 35%

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