Discover the perfect ingredients that pair harmoniously with strawberries and their sweet and juicy flavour.
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What is Strawberry?
Strawberries are a beloved fruit, prized for their characteristic aroma, juicy texture, and sweetness. They are a member of the rose family and are known scientifically as Fragaria x ananassa.
Strawberries are grown in many parts of the world, with the United States, Spain, and Mexico being among the largest producers.
Strawberries are typically bright red in colour, although there are also white or yellow varieties. They are small, conical in shape, and have a characteristic texture that is both juicy and slightly grainy.
The fruit is rich in vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants and is low in calories, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers.
Strawberry Season
Strawberry season typically falls between late spring and early summer in most parts of the world.
In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s typically from September to November, while in the Northern Hemisphere, the peak season for strawberries is usually from April to June. Here is a general overview of strawberry season in different parts of the world:
Australia: Strawberry season in Australia typically runs from June to November, with peak season being from August to October.
North America: In the United States, strawberry season varies depending on the region but generally runs from April to June. In Canada, the season runs from June to October.
Europe: Strawberry season in Europe typically runs from May to July, with some regions having a second season from September to October.
Asia: In Japan, strawberry season runs from January to May. In China, the season runs from April to June.
South America: Strawberry season in South America varies depending on the country and region but generally runs from October to March.
Locally grown strawberries that are in season would provide the freshest and most flavourful options anywhere in the world.
What Goes With Strawberry?
Fruit and Vegetables
Apple, apricot, avocado, banana, bell peppers, blackberry, blueberry, cantaloupe, celery, chestnut, chilli, cucumber, dragon fruit, eggplant, elderberry, endive, grape, guava, honeydew, kale, kiwi, lemon, lettuce, lime, lychee, mango, nectarine, orange, papaya, passionfruit, peach, pineapple, radish, rhubarb, rockmelon, spinach, tomato, watermelon, zucchini.
Herbs, Nuts and Spices
Almond, basil, coriander, dill, mint, pine nut, tarragon, walnut.
Protein and Other
Balsamic vinegar, bocconcini, buffalo mozzarella, bulgur, chickpea, chocolate, cottage cheese, duck, fava bean, honey, lentil, parmesan, squid, turkey, vanilla, wild rice.
What Does Strawberry Taste Like?
Flavour: The flavour of strawberry is often described as sweet, slightly tart, and fruity. It has a unique, refreshing taste that is sometimes described as “berry-like” or “juicy.”
When ripe, they have a strong and sweet aroma. It’s rich, full flavour is enhanced by their natural juiciness.
Some people may also detect subtle hints of floral or herbal notes in the flavour of strawberries. This depends on the specific variety and how they are prepared or served.
Texture: Strawberries are typically soft and juicy, with a slightly grainy texture due to the small seeds on their surface. When ripe, it should be firm but not hard, with a plump, smooth surface.
Cooking with Strawberries
When it comes to cooking with strawberries, their bright, fresh flavour pairs well with a variety of ingredients.
They are often combined with other fruits in fruit salads and fruit compotes or used as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, and other breakfast dishes. In the pastry kitchen, they are a staple ingredient in cakes, pies, and tarts, as well as in jams and preserves.
One popular way to prepare strawberries is to macerate them in sugar or another sweetener. This draws out their natural juices and creates a syrupy sauce. This can be used as a topping for ice cream or other desserts or as a filling for cakes and pastries.
In savoury cooking, strawberries can also be used to add a touch of sweetness to dishes like salads and sauces. They pair well with tangy flavours like balsamic vinegar and goat cheese and can be used to balance out spicy or acidic ingredients.
How to Use Strawberries in Salads and Side Dishes?
Strawberries can be a great addition to a variety of salads and side dishes, adding sweetness, juiciness, and a pop of colour. Here are some tips for using strawberries in salads:
Pair strawberries with greens: The sweet and tart flavours of strawberries can complement a variety of greens, such as spinach, arugula, or mixed greens. Try tossing sliced strawberries into a simple green salad for a refreshing twist.
Mix sweet and savoury: Strawberries can add a sweet element to savoury salads. Consider combining them with ingredients like bocconcini cheese, almonds, or grilled chicken for a balanced and flavourful salad. Or try adding them to a classic salad combination such as the Caprese salad.
Experiment with dressings: When using strawberries in salads, it’s important to choose the right dressing to complement their flavours. Try a balsamic vinaigrette or a citrus-based dressing to bring out its sweetness.
Add other fruits: Combining strawberries with other fruits can make for a delicious and colourful salad. Try mixing strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches for a sweet and fruity salad.
Incorporate textures: When creating a salad with strawberries, it’s important to consider texture as well. Consider adding ingredients like nuts, seeds, or crunchy vegetables to create a more interesting and satisfying salad.
Strawberries can be a versatile and delicious addition to a wide range of salads. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of flavours and textures to create the perfect salad or side dish for your tastes.
Salads and Side Dishes with Strawberries
Summer Strawberry Salad with Bocconcini and Rocket
Our Summer Strawberry Salad is perfect for outdoor barbeques and a stunner to serve at Christmas celebrations as well. The sweetness of strawberries matched with creamy bocconcini and drizzled with tangy aged balsamic vinegar is a match made in heaven.
A generous mix of strawberries, raspberries and blueberries mingled with maple lime dressing and topped with an optional lush prosecco cream. We just adore our delicious and refreshing mixed berry salad—a must-make berry fruit salad for all your summer entertaining.
Summer Berry Salad with Sumac Dusted Meringues
Want to add a touch of fun to an otherwise simple Summer Berry Salad? Pop these delectable meringue moments amidst the freshest of berries and watch everyone smash through this dessert fruit salad like they hadn’t eaten in days!
Frequently Asked Questions
This is the best way to store a punnet of strawberries to ensure they stay fresh for as long as possible.
First, check the punnet for any damaged or mouldy berries and remove them. Next, place them in a single layer on a paper towel-lined tray or container. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator.
It’s best to store strawberries in the crisper drawer, which has higher humidity and will help prevent them from drying out.
Avoid stacking the strawberries on top of each other, as this can cause them to become crushed and bruised.
Use the strawberries within a few days of purchase, as they can quickly go bad.
When stored properly in the refrigerator, fresh strawberries can last for up to 5 to 7 days. However, once they start to spoil, they can go bad quickly, so it’s best to use them within a few days of purchase.
Freezing strawberries is a great way to preserve them for later use.
First, wash the strawberries under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Next, place the prepared strawberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
Freeze them for a few hours or until they are completely frozen. Once frozen, transfer the strawberries to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to six months.
Frozen strawberries can be used in smoothies, desserts, and other recipes. It can also be enjoyed on their own as a refreshing snack. Note that once thawed, they tend to go a bit mushy, so we do not recommend using frozen strawberries for salads.
To clean strawberries, rinse the strawberries gently under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a colander to help drain the excess water.
If you prefer, you can also soak the strawberries in a bowl of cool water for a few minutes, but be careful not to let them soak for too long, as this can cause them to become waterlogged and lose flavour.
After washing, pat the strawberries dry with a paper towel or clean cloth. It’s best to wash strawberries just before use as excess moisture can cause them to spoil more quickly.
More Ingredient Pairing Ideas:
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