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February 1, 2013

In Praise of Strawberries

dreamstimefree_1868210_Strawberries

The strawberry season is drawing to an end down here in New Zealand. I’m a huge fan of strawberries. Let me count the ways….

Reasons Shelley Likes Strawberries:

1. The appearance of the first strawberries is a signal that summer is underway.

2. They’re low in calories and very tasty. Often I’ll pick and eat. They never make it inside.

3. Strawberries and chocolate are a match made in heaven. They’re the perfect treat to eat during a romantic rendezvous.

4. Strawberries also go well with champagne. It’s that romance thing again!

5. Strawberry shortcake muffins are delicious. Recipe to follow tomorrow.

 

Sundry Facts About Strawberries:

1. They say wild strawberries grew in Italy as early as 234 BC.

2. Settlers of Virginia discovered wild strawberries in 1588.

3. The acids in strawberries help to whiten teeth.

4. They’re full of vitamin C, contain flavonolds and help reduce cholesterol. They also contain folic acid, potassium and fibre.

5. Black pepper and strawberries go well together. Better for diets, no?

6. If you ever go to the Wimbledon tennis make sure you have some strawberries. It’s a tradition, and they go through thousands of kilos of strawberries during the tournament. Around 27,000! And I have to say it’s an enjoyable experience.

7. They’re a member of the rose family.

8. There are around 200 seeds in each strawberry.

Are you a fan of strawberries, and if so, what is your favorite way to eat them?

10 Comments

  1. Heather

    Love strawberries. In fact, I bought a container at the store last weekend that also has slices of kiwi in it. As you said, they go great with anything chocolate. I also like to add some to a bowl of oatmeal.

    I like strawberry shortcake, but prefer it with sponge cake rather than baking powder biscuits as some places serve it.

    • Shelley Munro

      I’d never tasted strawberry shortcake before until I tried these muffins. They’re more cake like and are delicious.

  2. Maria Zannini

    I never knew they whitened teeth!

    Every year I try to grow them and every year something eats them. I hate having to put cages over everything. But I might try some in pots I can keep close to the house.

    • Shelley Munro

      We struggle to keep the birds away from ours and have to cover them with netting.

  3. Mary Kirkland

    I love Strawberry’s. My mom used to have a small patch of them growing in our front yard and my brother and I used to go out there and eat them. lol We also had a grape vine on the fence that we ate off of and an Avocado tree.

    I love strawberries blended with whip cream and spread on angel food cake.

    • Shelley Munro

      Our neighbors are talking about growing grapes. It’s a real adventure for kids, being able to go out in the garden and pick stuff to eat.

  4. Laney4

    Up until I was 50, I would always squint while eating any type of berry, so I refused to eat them in public. After 50, though, I *forced* myself to eat them continually at home until FINALLY I could eat them without squinting. I still squint with the other berries, but now I’m just fine with the strawberries, at home and in public.
    I LOVE them with a sprinkle of sugar on top.

    • Shelley Munro

      LOL – Lainey, that must be amusing to watch. You’re missing out though. I love berries. They’re good for you too.

  5. Angela Brown

    Wonderful facts about the strawberry. I love eating them chocolate covered. Such a divine experience.

    • Shelley Munro

      Strawberries and chocolates are perfect for Valentine’s Day, Angela. Definitely divine!