10 (Surprising) Uses for Strawberries

Now that summer has rolled around, we can relax in the knowledge that fresh fruit and light salads are far more appealing in the hot weather now than during the bleak cold winter, which is great news for the health conscious among us. Strawberries are one of the fruits synonymous with summer, and since they ripen back in spring, it means we have far longer to enjoy them!

Not only are strawberry’s low in calories (just 55 calories a serving of one cup) and practically fat-free (0.43g in a serving of one cup), but they are also a great source of Vitamin C and folic acid. Just eight medium sized strawberries contain 140% of the U.S RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) for Vitamin C and 20% for folic acid.

Additionally, they are packed full of antioxidants, and have shown to be one of the top three nutrient dense fruits in a study conducted by the American college of Nutrition, meaning they are able to provide recommended amounts of nine nutrients essential to our wellbeing.

So, this summer try out our Top Ten Tips for Strawberries!

1. For an unusual addition to your summer BBQ this year, why not try strawberries, and other seasonal fruits grilled on skewers? Drizzle them with yogurt and honey and tuck in!

2. Out on a picnic and forgot your sunscreen? Never fear, for the humble strawberry juice mixed with honey will reduce sunburn or inflammation. Rub the mixture thoroughly into the skin before rinsing off with warm water and lemon juice. (more)

3.Try a fresh daiquiri by blending 30ml of rum with a handful of strawberries and a few tablespoons of fresh sugar.

4. An unusual tip, but worth a try if you are on a budget and want to combine healthy eating with improving the appearance of your teeth. (more)

5. Try them in a summer salad drizzled with balsamic vinegar. An odd pairing but take a look at this recipe if you’re not convinced! (more)

6. For those a bit more adventurous with their cooking try this recipe for strawberry sorbet. A healthier alternative to ice cream, but just as delicious. (more)

7. A quicker method of enjoying a frozen strawberry dessert for those with less time on their hands, blend a dozen or so strawberries with some water, sugar and milk until its fairly thick then freeze into popsicles or ice cubes. This is a great recipe for children to try on their own. (more)

8. Have a bowl of strawberries Wimbledon-style, by topping them with thick double cream and sprinkling them with sugar.

9. Start the morning with a Vitamin C kick by chopping up half a dozen strawberries and sprinkling them over your cereal, porridge or muesli. Yum!

10. And as for the strawberry leaves? Well, there is even a nutritional use for them. Take a look at this site detailing how to prepare and make strawberry leaf tea.  (more)

If there are any other tips and recipes you want to share be sure to let us know!

Possibly Related Posts:

• Lower Cholesterol Through Diet
• Mexican Foods – Ready To Go
• Research: Orange Juice – What people are looking for
• Choosing Canned Meat
• The Goodness of Grapes