Strawberries 5 Ways

I love eating fresh strawberries all by themselves, but there many other delicious ways to enjoy them. You’d better hurry and give these 5 recipes a try as these red gems are in season for only a short time.

Related To:

strawberries with ricotta cream

Balsamic Strawberries with Ricotta Cream; Ellie Krieger

Photo by: Tara Donne

Tara Donne

In-season strawberries are delicious all by themselves, but I love to enjoy these nutrient-packed berries other ways too -- from traditional sweets to new savory twists.  Give these 5 recipes a try while the red gems are at their peak.

With Greens

Brighten up a bed of greens by tossing in sliced strawberries. Veggies like spinach contain iron,  which is more easily absorbed with the help of the vitamin C-packed strawberries.

With Cream

Who can resist strawberries and cream? This lighter version uses part-skim ricotta cheese and makes for a fabulous dessert or afternoon snack.

With Chocolate

Strawberries and chocolate is already the perfect combination, but have you tried stuffing them with chocolate and roasting them? Three strawberries (considered one serving) contain only 108 calories and 7 grams of total fat. For some extra health benefits, choose antioxidant-rich dark chocolate.

With Sugar

Strawberries plus sugar makes a mean jam. Making your own means fewer preservatives and no high fructose corn syrup (many commercial jams contain it for extra sweetness). Use a tablespoon on toast, in oatmeal or atop a stack of pancakes.

With Liqueur

Combine strawberries with your favorite fruit to make a delicious smoothie (strawberries and banana are my favorite combo). Add a splash of liqueur or vodka and you’ve got a relaxing (and vitamin-packed) weekend beverage.

Bonus Recipe

Want some strawberries with a Mexican flare?  This new twist on a tostada pairs sweet strawberries with spicy  jalapenos and chili powder and creamy cheese and avocados. If you can't get your hands on jicama, try apples, celery or cucumbers instead.

TELL US: What's your favorite way to enjoy strawberries?

Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian and consultant who specializes in food safety and culinary nutrition. See Toby's full bio »

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