Health, Home and Family Newsletter - Pearl River County

Strawberries

The strawberry is a small plant that belongs to the Rose family. Strawberry plants may appear to grow on vines, but they produce runners, or daughter plants, that mimic vine growth. These runners help the strawberries spread across a garden. Strawberries can be grown wild or as a cultivated plant.

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Strawberries

Strawberries contain vitamin C, which helps heal cuts and wounds. They are a good source of potassium, which helps with muscle contractions and regulating fluid balance in the body. Strawberries also have folate, which is important for women who are pregnant, as it plays an important role in preventing birth defects.

How to Select Strawberries

Choose strawberries that are firm, shiny, and brightly colored.

Strawberries should be free from bruising and mold.

Harvest or choose ripe berries as they do not ripen after being picked.

How to Store Strawberries

Store unwashed strawberries in their original container or in a paper-lined container covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for 1-3 days.

How to Prepare Strawberries

Add sliced strawberries to a salad

Make a fruit salad using strawberries

Top yogurt or ice cream with sliced strawberries

Add sliced strawberries to cereal or oatmeal

Add to the batter or top pancakes or waffles with chopped/sliced strawberries

Add to a smoothie

Add cut strawberries to baked goods and other desserts like pies

Make jams and jellies

Blend strawberries and add to lemonade

Source: University of Nebraska – Lincoln Extension

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