Strawberries (250g Punnet)

The Jewel of Summer

Season and Harvest: Strawberries, those luscious red gems of summer, grace us with their sweetness from late spring through early summer in many regions. Their peak season varies slightly depending on location, but generally spans from May through June in the northern hemisphere. These bright berries are best enjoyed fresh when they're at their juiciest and most flavourful.

Flavour and Texture: Bursting with a delicate balance of sweetness and tartness, strawberries offer a refreshing bite and a floral aroma that instantly evoke warm days and outdoor gatherings. Their texture ranges from firm to tender, depending on ripeness and variety.

Cooking Ideas: While strawberries are most commonly enjoyed fresh, they lend themselves beautifully to a variety of culinary creations:

• Desserts: Strawberries are stars in desserts like strawberry shortcake, tarts, pies, and compotes. Their natural sweetness makes them perfect for jams and preserves too.
• Salads: Add a pop of colour and flavour to salads by tossing in sliced strawberries with greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette.
• Beverages: Blend into smoothies, muddle for cocktails, or infuse into lemonade for a refreshing twist.
• Savoury Dishes: Surprisingly versatile, strawberries can be incorporated into savoury dishes such as salads with goat cheese, balsamic-glazed chicken, or even in salsas for fish or chicken.

Food Pairings:

• Cheeses: Pair with soft cheeses like mascarpone or goat cheese for a delightful contrast.
• Chocolate: Dip strawberries in melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.
• Herbs: Mint or basil complement strawberries beautifully in both sweet and savoury dishes.
• Grains: Serve alongside oatmeal, granola, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.

Storing Tips: To maintain freshness and flavour:

• Store unwashed strawberries in the refrigerator in a breathable container or paper towel-lined tray.
• Wash strawberries just before use to prevent them from absorbing excess moisture.
• For longer storage, strawberries can be frozen whole or sliced. Freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for easy portioning.

Conclusion: Whether enjoyed freshly picked, baked into a pie, or blended into a refreshing drink, strawberries are a quintessential taste of summer. Their versatility in both sweet and savoury dishes ensures they remain a beloved ingredient in kitchens worldwide, providing a burst of seasonal delight whenever they appear.

Image by Racool_studio on Freepik
Image by KamranAydinov on Freepik