My mom loves to tell the story of when I was four years old and she couldn’t find me. Panicked, she ran through our house calling my name with silence on the other end. Frantic, she ran outside and searched the yard until she spotted a little white shirt in the far-off distance, sitting in the strawberry patch. There I was, feasting away on every bright red, delicious strawberry I could get my hands on. I loved strawberries then and love them just as much now—especially the very first bite of one when they are freshly picked and in season. What is it about that first bite? It’s hard to beat the sweet taste of spring after winter is over and knowing summer is ready burst in.
The Nutritional Power of Strawberries
Strawberries aren’t just delicious; they are also packed with nutritional benefits. These vibrant red berries are low in calories and high in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits of strawberries:
- Rich in Vitamin C: One cup of strawberries provides over 100% of your daily Vitamin C requirement. Vitamin C is essential for the growth and repair of tissues in the body and also boosts the immune system.
- High in Fiber: Strawberries are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation.
- Antioxidants: These berries are loaded with antioxidants like anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
- Manganese: Strawberries contain manganese, a mineral that plays a crucial role in bone health and metabolism.
- Low in Calories: With only about 50 calories per cup, strawberries are a guilt-free treat that can satisfy your sweet tooth.
Strawberry Appetizers and Bite-Sized Desserts
Incorporating strawberries into your appetizer and dessert boards adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Here are a few of my favorite strawberry-inspired recipes that are perfect for any gathering.
Cream Cheese Filled Filo Cups with Strawberries
Indulge in a delightful and visually stunning dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. These cream cheese-filled filo cups topped with fresh, juicy strawberries are not only delectable but also incredibly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the recipe and unlock the secrets to creating this irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
- 12 sheets of filo dough, cut into 4-inch squares
- 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Gently press the filo squares into a mini muffin tin, creating small cups.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended and smooth.
4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly into the filo cups.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the filo cups are golden brown.
6. Remove the cups from the oven and let them cool completely.
7. Top each cup with a generous amount of diced fresh strawberries.
8. Get this yumminess on a board for great presentation!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 55mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 2g
Indulge in the perfect balance of flaky filo, creamy cheese, and juicy strawberries. This delightful dessert is sure to become a new favorite in your repertoire. Impress your loved ones with your culinary skills and enjoy the delicious flavors of this irresistible treat.
If you need a great board, this is one of my favorites! (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Here are some other favorites. Make them and pop them onto a board for fun parties, picnics, or just a couple friends. Bites on boards make every food presentable and more fun!
Strawberry and Goat Cheese Bruschetta
Ingredients:
- Baguette slices
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Goat cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Toast the baguette slices in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown.
- Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each slice.
- Top with sliced strawberries and fresh basil leaves.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Melted butter
- Cream cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries, halved
- Mini muffin liners
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press a small amount of the crumb mixture into the bottom of each mini muffin liner.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture onto the graham cracker crusts.
- Top each with a half strawberry.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Strawberry Caprese Skewers
Ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries, halved
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella balls
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Skewers
Directions:
- Thread a half strawberry, a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf onto each skewer.
- Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.