Springtime brings a bounty of big, red, ripe and juicy strawberries. Fresh strawberries are deliciously sweet, no matter how you slice it. Whether you include them in a salad, smoothie or eat them as a simple snack, they’re a great way to get the servings of fruit you need in your diet. Strawberries not only taste great, but they are also nutritious and have many healthy advantages.
- Strawberries are a good source of Vitamin A, folic acid and fiber which are important heart-healthy nutrients.
- Just eight strawberries contain 160% of the daily value of vitamin C that lower the levels of both total and LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) and helps prevent colds and infections.
- A whole cup of fresh strawberries has only 45 calories – any they’re fat-free!
- Serve fresh strawberries at room temperature for peak flavor.
Most known for being a delicious addition to desserts like shortcake or angel food cake, strawberries are often a tasty topping to stuffed French toast or a favorite flavor for jam and jelly. Fresh strawberries are also great to eat as a simple snack, served with plain or whipped cream or macerated in wine or liqueur.
Here are a few easy tips to keep in mind when you’re shopping for your fresh strawberries:
Picking the best
Choose firm, bright-red berries with a sweet aroma. Use fresh strawberries right away for the best flavor and appearance.
Savor the sweetness
Remove the strawberries from the original container, place in a single layer in a flat container, cover and refrigerate to keep your strawberries for a day or two longer.
Ready to serve
Wash strawberries under cool water with stems still attached. Pat dry and remove the stems with a slight twist or paring knife.
Enjoy strawberries even after summer
Strawberries are easy to freeze and make great drinks like Strawberry Yogurt Freeze, smoothies and sauces such as Strawberry Barbecue Sauce year-round. To freeze, place sliced, stemmed berries into a freezer bag in a single layer, seal and freeze. When you’re ready to use them, thaw the strawberries in the refrigerator and use within three days.
Celebrate spring with fresh strawberries. Take pleasure in the sweet taste and add their perks to your diet. Including strawberries in your every day eating habits contributes to a healthful lifestyle. Finally, a food that tastes good and is good for you!
Recipes
Strawberry and Cheese Pairings
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Mascarpone — a rich, creamy Italian cheese is a decadent treat and perfect partner for fresh strawberries.
The delightfully tart flavor of goat cheese kissed with honey gives strawberries an unmatched flavor.
The mild, mellow flavor of this triple-cream cheese and chocolate gives the berries an extravagantly rich taste.
Explore our Cheese Shop |
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Click here for more health information about strawberries
