Strawberries… I can’t get enough of them this time of year. I love the cheap prices. the juiciness. mouthwateringly sweet flavor. and oh so many ways to incorporate them into my routine. Today, I’ll share with you the benefits of strawberries AND the many different ways to eat them!
Strawberry Nutrition 101
- Strawberries are filled with vitamin C which is a powerful antioxidant that helps keep the immune system strong, fights inflammation, and aids in college formation to keep joints healthy.
- Fun fact, 8 strawberries have more vitamin C than an orange!
- 1 medium strawberry is only 4 calories and contains less than 1 gram carbohydrate. 1 cup of whole strawberries is 47 calories, 11 gram carbohydrate, and has 3 grams of fiber. That’s nearly half the calories in most fruit!
- Super rich in potassium which blunts the effects of sodium in the diet and needed to control blood pressure. Most people don’t even meet half of their potassium needs each day!! Eat more strawberries people.
Whole. With a little peanut butter and chocolate of course. So flippin’ simple but it cannot be beat.
Strawberry Chia Jam by The Foodie Dietitian
Jam. I haven’t made jam since I was in food science class in school, but this Strawberry Chia Jam recipe from my dear friend Kara Lydon makes me want to get on board with the strawberry preservation process. And hello nutrition burst–this jam is packed with chia seeds too. Top on whole grain toast or scoop a spoonful into your oatmeal.
Salad. Strawberries are naturally sweet and make a great addition to a savory salad. I’m a sucker for sweet and savory and salty dishes! Ah, now I’m craving a warm piece of grilled chicken a top this Strawberry, Fennel and Barley Salad from fANNEtasticfood. Yum yum yum.
Smoothies. Ya’ll know I love me some smoothies. Strawberries are easily stored in frozen form and blend yummily, is that a word? into a smoothie– no ice people, means more sweetness. Get the recipe for this White Chocolate Strawberry Protein Smoothie from Lee at FitFoodieFinds. Don’t waste fresh strawberries, if you find that you aren’t eating them up in time. Wash them, cut the tops off and store them in a baggie. More here on how I freeze fruit for smoothies.
Dessert. And, the best application of all, dessert!! Because strawberries come by their sweetness naturally, they make a wonderful dessert. I’m dying to try these Sexy Strawberry Cream Milkshakes from AvodadoADayNutrition.com.
What is your favorite way to eat strawberries?
Hi I’m Kristina LaRue, registered dietitian and millennial mom of two active and hungry boys. Here on Love & Zest, you’ll find (mostly) healthy recipes to fuel the whole family and real life stories of modern motherhood. I’m all about veggie-filled breakfast meal prep recipes, healthier sweets, and easy weeknight dinners made in the Instant Pot or sheet pan.
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[…] eating a bowl of Greek yogurt, or parfait rather (because I can’t do just yogurt), with berries, strawberries, coconut flakes, ancient grain seeds, and a sprinkle of TURMERIC and cinnamon on […]