Introduction
Strawberries are a sweet and juicy fruit that are perfect for snacks, desserts, and even drinks. When strawberries are in season, it’s the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen. Here are some of the best things you can make with fresh strawberries.
1. Strawberry Shortcake
Ingredient: – 2 cups all-purpose flour – 1/4 cup granulated sugar – 1 tbsp baking powder – 1/2 tsp salt – 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed – 1 cup heavy cream – 1 egg – 1 tsp vanilla extract – 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced – Whipped cream Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. 3. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. 5. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until dough forms. 6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently. 7. Pat dough into a circle and transfer to a baking sheet. 8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. 9. Allow to cool, then slice in half. 10. Top bottom half with sliced strawberries and whipped cream, then replace top half. 11. Top with more whipped cream and strawberries. Nutrition: – Calories: 361 – Fat: 23g – Carbohydrates: 34g – Protein: 5g
2. Strawberry Smoothie
Ingredient: – 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled – 1 banana, peeled and sliced – 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt – 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk – 1 tbsp honey – 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – 1 cup ice Instructions: 1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. 2. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Nutrition: – Calories: 201 – Fat: 2g – Carbohydrates: 42g – Protein: 8g
3. Strawberry Salad
Ingredient: – 4 cups mixed greens – 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced – 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese – 2 tbsp sliced almonds – Balsamic vinaigrette Instructions: 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, strawberries, feta cheese, and sliced almonds. 2. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss to combine. Nutrition: – Calories: 196 – Fat: 12g – Carbohydrates: 19g – Protein: 6g
4. Strawberry Jam
Ingredient: – 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped – 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – 2 tbsp lemon juice Instructions: 1. In a large pot, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. 2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a boil. 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens. 4. Remove from heat and let cool. 5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Nutrition: – Calories: 47 – Fat: 0g – Carbohydrates: 12g – Protein: 0g
5. Strawberry Lemonade
Ingredient: – 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced – 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice – 1/2 cup granulated sugar – 4 cups water Instructions: 1. In a blender, puree strawberries until smooth. 2. In a large pitcher, combine strawberry puree, lemon juice, sugar, and water. 3. Stir until sugar is dissolved. 4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. 5. Serve over ice. Nutrition: – Calories: 89 – Fat: 0g – Carbohydrates: 24g – Protein: 1g
Conclusion
There are so many delicious things you can make with fresh strawberries. From sweet treats like strawberry shortcake and jam to refreshing drinks like smoothies and lemonade, there’s something for everyone. Try these recipes the next time you have a basket of fresh strawberries on hand.
