Berry Delicious!

Strawberries- A tasty spring time treat!

 The strawberry is the most popular berry in the United States.  And strawberries offer great nutrition while being low in calories.

·        only 50 calories in one cup of strawberries

·        more Vitamin C than an orange and      

·        a good source of fiber

Look for berries that are plump, dry, firm, uniformly colored and well shaped. The leafy caps should be fresh looking and green. If purchasing berries in a box, look on the underside for signs of stains or dampness. This may mean the fruit is decaying. Once home, sort through the berries in the box and discard any overripe or smashed berries. Store berries in the refrigerator in a shallow container lined with paper towels. Wash the fruit close to time of use to discourage early decay. Remove caps with a paring knife or huller.

 Consider planting a strawberry patch this spring to enjoy home grown strawberries.  The ISU Extension publication, Production Guide to Commercial Strawberries (PM-672d), will tell you what you need to grow your own.  For a listing of recommended varieties, see Pm 453 Fruit Cultivars for Iowa (cost publication). 

 Or visit a Farmers Market or local strawberry producer.  Your local Extension office can help you locate the nearest one.  You might also consider making strawberry jam or freezing berries to enjoy during the cold winter months.  Ask for the ISU Extension publications: Making Fruit Spreads (Pm 1366) and Freezing Fruits and Vegetables (Pm 1045).

 You may download these publications online from the ISU publications store located at: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/store/. Just put in the number of the publication in the “search” area.

 Have you checked out the new Spend Smart, Eat Smart web site at:

http://www.extension.iastate.edu/foodsavings/

This smoothie recipe using strawberries is a sample of the recipes you can find at the web site.

 

Smoothies                              Makes 3 servings, 1 cup each
Ingredients:

• 2 to 3 cups frozen strawberries
• 1 (6- to 8-ounce) carton vanilla, plain, or fruit-flavored yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk
• 3 ice cubes

Directions:

1. Wash hands.
2. Put all ingredients in a blender.
3. Blend on high until smooth.
4. Pour into glasses. 

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like: Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880 Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-579-6227 Long Branch Supper Club – 641-458-8027 Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234 Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378 Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114