How to care for fresh strawberries

It’s strawberry season! Every summer of my childhood has been filled with memories of going fresh strawberry picking with my mom and younger brother. It’s a great, family fun, bonding activity that leaves you with more then sweet memories.

I’ve always been a huge supporter of buying local produce and now that I’m in the city, my feelings haven’t changed. Even when I cannot find time to pick my own berries I try to buy them at roadside stands or farmer’s markets.

Taking care of fresh strawberries is a careful art though, so here are some easy tips on keeping those strawberries fresh.

1. If your picking your own, the official peak season is from April to June. This is when the berries are fullest and sweetest.
2. Avoid berries with white tips, because the flavor will not be a ripe as those with red tips.
3. The sooner the better is best when dealing with strawberries. If you are snacking right away, place the berries in a strainer and rinse with cold running water, but do not let them set in the water as they’ll lose flavor and color.
4. Keep in mind strawberries are best if used in the first three or four days after picking. Still, if you’re saving them for awhile, store berries unwashed, on a flat, paper towel lined plate and refrigerate. Do not cut or wash them till you are ready to eat, because you lose the flavor and vitamin C.

For a unique way to enjoy strawberries, try these Strawberry Fruit Kebabs with Honey-Yogurt Dipping Sauce. Enjoy!

Rebecca Copeland is an intern at Mom Central Consulting.

Mom Central