5 reasons to serve strawberries this summer 

Are strawberries good for you?

Strawberries are delicious, low in energy (calories) and an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, and dietary fibre.

Like other fruit, they count towards your 5-a-day. One portion is 80g, or around 7 strawberries.

They’re sweet, full of flavour and reasonably priced when they’re in season, which is from May to late August in the UK.

And strawberries require little preparation – just rinse them with running water. But try not to soak them for too long or remove their green leavy top before you wash them, as this will remove some of their flavour.

What about strawberries and cream?

Fresh strawberries served with cream is a classic British summer dessert, and a famous staple at Wimbledon tennis tournament that takes place every July.

But cream is high in saturated fat, which can increase your blood cholesterol levels and cancel out any health benefits you get from the strawberries.

The good news is that there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this delicious fruit. Here are 5 heart-healthy ways to serve strawberries.

1. Strawberries and yogurt

For a creamy treat without the added fat, serve strawberries with low-fat yogurt or fat-free fromage frais instead of cream.

Or you can dip strawberries in yogurt and then pop them in the freezer for a couple of hours for a refreshing frozen snack.

• Get our recipe for frozen yogurt coated strawberries.

2.  Strawberries and balsamic vinegar

Did you know that balsamic vinegar can enhance the natural flavour of the strawberries?

Try drizzling 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar over 80g strawberries, then let them sit for around an hour at room temperature to marinate. You can also grind a little black pepper on top for some extra spice.

3. Home-made strawberry jelly

This classic dessert is another easy way to enjoy strawberries. You can make it at home with whole pieces of strawberry, fresh pureed strawberries and gelatine (or a vegetarian alternative such as agar).

To make the puree, heat fresh or frozen strawberries in a saucepan, and use a fork to mash the strawberries, before straining them through a sieve.

Whisk the puree with boiling water and gelatine to make the jelly. Follow the instructions on the pack of gelatine to know how much to use for the amount of puree and water you have.

Then place fresh strawberries into bowls or glasses, and pour the mixture over the top. Leave the jelly to set in the fridge, and then enjoy.

4. Strawberry scones

Scones are easy to make and a few simple changes to the ingredients and toppings can make them a healthier option.

Try our recipe, which includes strawberries for moisture and flavour, and wholemeal flour for added fibre.

Serve the scones with olive or sunflower spread instead of butter or clotted cream to cut down on saturated fat.

• See our recipe for fresh strawberry scones.

5. Strawberry and chocolate beetroot cake

Our chocolate, strawberry and beetroot cake is an indulgent yet healthy treat.

The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the earthy flavour of beetroot. Plus, like strawberries, beetroots contain nitrates, which may help to lower blood pressure.

• Get our recipe for strawberry and chocolate beetroot cake.

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