New season strawberries herald the arrival of ‘real’ summertime in Ireland. Strawberries are one of the most popular soft fruits eaten in Ireland and worldwide. There are many different varieties strawberries with different texture, flavour and size. But is there anything better than when locally grown strawberries are in season? Locally grown strawberries have a unique taste profile and can be a great way to get one of your 7 – a – day in the summer.
Strawberry Facts
80g of strawberries (just 7) provide nearly 100% of your daily requirement of vitamin C! Vitamin C has a host of health giving properties – it contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, to normal functioning of the nervous system, to normal psychological function. As well as that it contributes to the normal function of the immune system, and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. And finally, vitamin C contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and increases iron absorption. That’s a lot of health benefits from just seven strawberries!
Here's some inspiration on how to include strawberries into your diet this summer:
- Add a portion to breakfast – a great way to add natural sweetness to cereal in the morning or even to pancakes if you have having a treat.
- Add a portion to a mid morning smoothie – when made with natural yogurt, a smoothie can be a great addition to your day
- Add to salads such as a chicken and strawberry salad with spinach leaves – a very colourful and nutritious mid day meal