Strawberry season is starts this week! I feel like one of the best activities you can do with your kiddos in the summertime is to pick and eat fresh fruit. It's a fun outing, it's educational, it's nutritious, and it's delicious. Here's how to get the freshest local strawberries:
- Visit a local u-Pick strawberry patch! Beasley's Orchard in Avon just opened for u-Pick on May 29th. Check their Facebook page for updates before you go.
- Pick up your own strawberry plants just about anywhere plants are sold and grow them in your own backyard!
- Head to one of Hendricks County's awesome Farmers Markets!
It's our tradition to make lots of delicious strawberry treats:
Strawberry Shortcakes -- Bake shortcakes according to the Original Bisquick mix recipe. Add freshly cut strawberries and top with whipped cream.
Freezer Jam -- Buy a box of Sure-Jell pectin in your grocery's canning section. Follow directions closely for strawberry freezer jam.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries -- Rinse and thoroughly dry whole strawberries. Let air dry at least an hour. Melt semi-sweet or special dark chocolate chips in a microwaveable bowl in 30 second increments, stirring each time, until smooth. Dip each strawberry and let cool on wax paper. Keep what you don't eat right away in a container in the refrigerator.
Frozen Strawberries -- Did you know you can freeze strawberries like you do blueberries? We use them for smoothies or recipes. Cut, lay on tray, freeze for 2 - 3 hours. Once frozen, transfer to freezer bags. Use as needed; and no sugar added!
