Washington state gems shine with Hollywood stars

They might not make it onto the red carpet, but they are ready for their close-up.

Washington-grown Opal apples, known for their bright yellow hue and sweet tangy crunch, will be included in this year’s “Everyone Wins” nominee gift bags, which are given to Oscar nominees in major acting and directing categories.

Hollywood stars will receive a box of six of these Washington-state gems as well as a gift certificate they can redeem for a monthly delivery of the apples while the fruit is in season.

Opals are available nationwide – in stores such as Walmart, Rosauers, Costco and Trader Joe’s – from October to June.

They’re grown and packed exclusively by Broetje Orchards, a major apple producer east of the Tri-Cities. The family-owned and operated orchard grows apples, pears and cherries on more than 8,500 acres near Prescott.

A cross between a Golden Delicious and a Topaz, Opals are non-GMO and known for their natural non-browning ability.

How do you like them apples?

For more information – as well as a way to receive a dollar off Opal apples – visit www.opalapples.com/get-an-opal.

For recipes and a list of where to buy Opal apples visit www.opalapples.com/find-it.aspx.

The 89th Academy Awards take place in Los Angeles on Sunday. Comedian Jimmy Kimmel is hosting the show, which starts at 5:30 p.m. on ABC. Broadcasting from the red carpet starts at 4 p.m.