Strawberries!

We are finally coming up to strawberry picking season and nothing’s better in the summer than a big, juicy, oh-so-sweet strawberry! Going strawberry picking is a great way to spend some quality time with your family, get some physical activity, reduce stress, and eat locally. 


June and July are the peak seasons for strawberries – this is when they will be at their freshest and most nutritious. There are many strawberry farms in our area that offer not only strawberries, but raspberries (in the fall) and other locally grown, healthy vegetables such as asparagus, pumpkins, squash, beets, and beans.

When picking strawberries, choose plump, firm, deep-colored strawberries, with bright green caps and no signs of mold or soft spots. You can store strawberries in the refrigerator for 1-2 days and it is best to wash and hull strawberries just before using them. A 12 oz. basket of strawberries will give you 3 1/2 cups whole strawberries, or 2 1/4 cup sliced strawberries. While strawberries are great on their own, one of the best ways I enjoy strawberries is on a delicious summer salad!

For more info on strawberries and other local produce check out: http://huronperthfarmtotable.ca/consumers/  

Strawberry Summer Salad Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed greens (or spinach)
• ½ cup sliced strawberries
•  2 tbsp dried cranberries
•   ¼ cup cooked red or black quinoa (I get this at bulk food stores!)
• 1 tbsp goat’s cheese
•  2 tbsp walnut pieces

Preparation:

Combine all ingredients and serve with Honey Dijon Salad Dressing on the side.

Homemade Honey Dijon Salad Dressing Recipe:

Makes about 2 cups Honey Dijon Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup cider vinegar
• 2/3 cup olive oil
• salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Preparation:

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and whisk vigorously until emulsified. May be served immediately. May be stored for several weeks in the refrigerator. Stir well before serving.
                        

Makes a great lunch!

                                                                                     Jessica

Jessica Drummond is a graduate from Brescia University College in Nutrition and Dietetics. She is currently the Community Health summer student at the Perth District Health Unit.