Americans need to eat more fruit on a daily basis. With fresh strawberries in season, this is no problem for berry lovers. Finding the best berries can be easy if you follow these simple tips.
Locate a strawberry patch in your area. Nothing makes strawberries better than picking them yourself fresh from the plant. This activity is not only fun; but it is exercise, as well. Purchase plenty of strawberries from the farmer when you pick your berries. Remember, you will want to have enough to freeze for future use.
If selecting your own strawberries fresh from the vine isn’t an option for you, then visit the produce section of your grocery store. Do not judge a strawberry simply by the size of the fruit. The larger or smaller a strawberry does not affect how sweet the fruit will taste.
Choose your strawberries carefully. You will want to pick the strawberries that are already ripe. Strawberries do not ripen after being removed from the plant. Your strawberries should be a bright red color. Berries that appear slightly green or orange in color are not ripe. When selecting a container of strawberries be careful and choosy. Avoid packages of strawberries with rotten berries. Avoid any mold that may appear on the fruit.
After selecting your strawberries, take them home and keep them in the refrigerator. The bright red fruit makes a terrific snack, dessert, or addition to a meal. Whether you prefer strawberry shortcake, strawberry ice cream, or strawberry pancakes, you will note the delicious taste of your perfect strawberries.
If you plan to save strawberries for the rest of the year, freeze them when they are in season. Doing this will not only provide you with the best flavor, but will save you tons of money. Strawberries, like other fruit, cost less during their peak season.
As with any fruit you purchase, gently wash your strawberries in cool water to remove any dirt. Avoid eating strawberries that have not been washed. It may be tempting to taste a strawberry or two, but it really is best to wash them first.
To freeze your strawberries you will want to remove the tops and core from the berry. A simple trick to remove the tops is by using a straw. A sturdy straw is a great tool. Poke the straw through the bottom of the berry aiming it toward the center of the top. Press through until the core and the top easily pops free from the rest of the strawberry.
After you have prepared your strawberries by washing them and removing their tops, place them on a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper. A single layer spread across the cookie sheet is most effective. Place the cookie sheet in the freezer until the strawberries are completely frozen. A few frozen strawberries are a refreshing snack on those hot, steamy days of summer. Frozen strawberries are also terrific for baking in the future. The frozen strawberries will be slightly softer after thawing when compared to fresh fruit.
Keep your diet healthy all year long by stocking up on fresh, ripe strawberries when they are in season. A few simple steps now will have you and your family enjoying the delicious sweet taste of red strawberries for months to come.
