(Family Features) - The color red can liven up any entertaining occasion. And "eating red" not only adds eye-popping color to a sensational spread, it's also a color cue for good health. Why red? The deep-hued red color in fruits such as tart cherries, tomatoes and red grapes is produced by powerful disease-fighting compounds that studies show may help reduce the risk of heart disease. 

Plus, cherries, one of today's hottest "Super Fruits," can be enjoyed year-round as dried, frozen and juice. So the possibilities of entertaining with this red fruit are endless. Cherries can add antioxidant benefits, rich red color, and sweet-tart taste to any celebration.

Here are a few ways to add a powerful red punch to your guests' palettes, with good taste and nutrition:

• Add chopped tomatoes to your favorite dips like spinach-artichoke or ranch veggie for a colorful antioxidant kick.
• Make bamboo skewers alternating red grapes and canned pineapple chunks for a fresh party pick. Serve with a light yogurt dip.
• Serve up a sparkling red twist on the traditional champagne punch with 100 percent cherry juice by making Sparkling Red Cherry Punch.
• Swap cherries for cranberries or raisins in your favorite baked goods, and end the evening on a powerful note with the Power Cherry Trail Mix Cookies.

Visit www.choosecherries.com for more entertaining "eat red" recipe ideas and tips.