There is nothing we love more than local farm fresh strawberries. It is strawberry season in the Philadelphia area right now and I am excited to enjoy them in my favorite recipes or just plain as a delicious snack. When sweet, ripe, vibrant strawberries hit my local farms I know it means warm weather, summer fun and lots of other fresh produce on the way.
Health Benefits
Not only are strawberries one of the most sweet and delicious fruits but they are also extremely good for your health. These members of the rose family protect your heart, increase HDL (good) cholesterol and lower your blood pressure. Packed with fiber, vitamins and high levels of antioxidants strawberries are a fat-free, sodium-free and cholesterol-free food. They are also a great source of potassium and vitamin C.
But it’s not only all of the health benefits that make me love and look forward to strawberry season each year. There are so many delicious things I love to make with strawberries and that’s why they are my Secret Ingredient of the Week – Strawberries.
Chris’ Favorite Ways to Use Local Farm Fresh Strawberries
- Strawberry Cocktail
One of our absolute favorite uses for an abundance of strawberries is a refreshing and delicious strawberry cocktail. They are simple to make with muddled strawberries, your spirit of choice (I prefer Tequila or Vodka), lots of ice and fresh mint for garnish.
- Grilled Chipotle Pork Tenderloin with Spicy Strawberry Salsa
This is a company-worthy entree. The heat from the chipotle chilis and the sweetness from the local strawberries are the perfect compliment and it’s definitely sure to wow your guests.
- Quick Breakfasts
I love to throw fresh strawberries in my morning smoothie or yogurt parfait. They add a little bit of sweetness and many health benefits.
Local Farm Fresh Strawberries
If you are ambitious enough to go strawberry picking we have provided a list of local farms with pick-your-own. Please be sure to check each farm’s website for social distancing rules and regulations before you go.
- Maple Acre Farms, Plymouth Meeting
- Highland Orchards, West Chester
- Linvilla Orchards, Media
Though they don’t allow you to pick-your-own, Sugartown Strawberries are locally grown and freshly picked right on their farm in Malvern.
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We are currently on hold due to COVID-19 but will be up and running again very soon. Contact Secret Ingredient today to be the first on our waiting list and we will contact you as soon as we begin scheduling.
Stay Healthy,
