All Things Strawberries: 3 of my favorite recipes!

Sharing all things strawberries- recipes, shopping, & storage tips!

I've always been a strawberry girl—fresh out of the carton, baked into warm banana bread, or even just freshly mashed and mixed into yogurt, I can enjoy them in any way possible!

This year is particularly special because it's the first time I grew strawberries in my garden box. Surprisingly, they were so easy to cultivate, even for a beginner gardener like me. Watching them transform from a pretty white flower to a little red berry was absolutely mind-blowing. I collected each and every berry to create all my current favorite summer recipes, which I’m excited to share with you below. I'll also include some tips on nutrition, shopping, and storage to help you make the most of these delicious berries!

Happy berry picking!

Benefits of eating strawberries:

There is so much to love about strawberries beyond how "berry" delicious they are. They are rich in iron and fiber, and their red hue comes from antioxidants called anthocyanins, which increase as the plant ripens.

Strawberries have also been linked to supporting healthy blood pressure due to their heart-protective nutrients like potassium. Plus, they make for a blood sugar-friendly snack since they are a low-glycemic fruit!

So next time you’re enjoying these vibrant berries, remember all the amazing health benefits packed into each bite. 🍓❤️✨

Shopping for strawberries:

Although you can purchase strawberries any time of the year, they taste best when they're in season, from early spring to mid-summer. (Fun fact: National Pick Strawberries Day is May 20th!) When searching for strawberries at the grocery store, look for ones that are red and firm with bright green stems that aren't wilted. A handy tip is to tilt the carton upside down to ensure the berries at the bottom aren't mushed or bruised.

Strawberry storage tips:

Strawberries can go from looking plump and fresh one day to moldy the next. While there are many storage hacks online promising a longer shelf life for strawberries, I've found a method that works well for me. I give the strawberries a vinegar bath (3 parts water + 1 part vinegar) for 5-15 minutes. Then, I place them in a ventilated container lined with a paper towel to soak up excess moisture and prevent mold. I usually replace the paper towel every so often until the berries are finished.

For the best flavor, strawberries can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to six months. This method has helped me keep my strawberries fresh and delicious for longer periods.

Fun ways to use strawberries:

Do you have strawberries lying around that are starting to wilt? If they aren't moldy, don't throw them away just yet! Here are a few delicious ways to make the most out of those strawberries:

1. Chia Seed Jam: Transform your slightly wilted strawberries into a delicious chia seed jam. Try my Triple Berry Jam recipe for a sweet and healthy spread perfect for toast, yogurt, or desserts.

2. Salad Toppers: Slice those strawberries and use them as fresh, sweet toppers for your salads. They add a burst of flavor and color.

3. Yogurt Mix-ins: Mash the strawberries and mix them into yogurt for a naturally sweet and juicy breakfast or snack.

4. Toast Toppers: Layer the strawberries on your morning toast with a spread of your choice for a delightful start to your day.

5. Freeze-Dried Strawberries: If you want a long-lasting option, try using freeze-dried strawberries. They are perfect for mocktails, adding a unique texture and flavor. You can also incorporate them into granola recipes like my No-Bake Strawberry Granola.

Check out my current favorite ways to use strawberries below and make the most of every berry!

Strawberry-Honey Lemonade: Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

• 1/4 cup honey ( or other sweetener of choice)

• 2 2/3 cup water

• 4 large strawberries

Directions: Blend all ingredients well in a high-speed blender. Pour over ice and enjoy. Ooptional- garnish with lemon slices & mint.

Strawberry Crumble: Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries

• 4 tbsp. brown sugar

• 1/2 tsp. cornstarch

• 3 tbsp. flour

• 3 tbsp. rolled oats

• 2 tbsp. softened butter

• Optional: crushed nuts of choice

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare your filling by combining strawberries, 2 tbsp. brown sugar, and cornstarch in a 10-inch ramekin or cast iron mini dutch oven. Prepare your crumble topping in a seperate bowl by combining flour, oats, 2 tbsp. brown sugar, and softened butter. Mix with a fork and your hands to help the butter combine well. Coat the top of the filling prepared with the crumble evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown.

Strawberry-Chia Mousse: Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries

• 1/2 cup milk of choice ( may need extra milk)

• 1/4 cup chia seeds

• 2 tbsp. honey or sweetener of choice

Directions: Blend all ingredients in a high speed blender till smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk. Chill in the fridge for 30- 60 minutes. Divide into small serving cups and top with yogurt and fresh strawberries.

Other strawberry recipes found on my blog:

Strawberries & Cream Pastries

Strawberry Parfait Bites

Berry Sweet Yogurt Bark

Berry Mint Lemonade

Hungry for more information ? Check out my previous posts below

Let's connect! Share your strawberry recipe creations with me on Instagram with the hashtag #doseofnutrition