While strawberries are well known for topping desserts, these sweet little fruits can also be worked into many other healthy and delicious dishes. The vitamin C rich fruit is loaded with healthy antioxidants, so add them into your favorite recipes for a nutritious punch of flavor. Here are five strawberry-filled recipes to get you started.
1. Strawberry Shortcakes
Let’s start with a traditional dessert. Strawberry shortcakes do not have to be high in calories and fat. This version manages to keep all the flavor while adding a healthy twist to the beloved treat.
Ingredients:
- Sliced strawberries
- Stevia (or other no calorie sweetener)
- Strawberry or vanilla fat free light yogurt
- Pack of shortcakes (found in the bakery section of most grocery stores)
Directions:
In a large bowl, mix strawberries with a 1/2 cup of Stevia. (You can add or decrease the Stevia to your liking.) Fill a shortcake with the strawberries. Top with fat free light yogurt.
2. Strawberry Smoothie
Most strawberry smoothie recipes are packed with added sugar. This smoothie replaces sugar with natural stevia and uses yogurt to add a rich creaminess.
Ingredients:
- 4 large strawberries
- 1 1/2 T Stevia
- 3 cubes of ice
- 1/4 cup fat free milk
- 1/4 cup fat free light yogurt
Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender and mix until smooth.
3. Strawberry Oatmeal
Start your day with this healthy oatmeal that is both filling and nutritious – not to mention it is also delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup quick oats
- 1 cup water
- 2 T of diced walnuts
- 4 large strawberries, sliced
- 2 T Stevia (optional)
Directions:
In a bowl, mix the quick oats with water. Follow the package directions and heat in the microwave. Add sweetener if desired and stir. Toss in walnuts and sliced strawberries. Serve immediately.
4. Strawberry Salad
Eating your veggies has never tasted this good. This green salad gets some tangy sweetness from strawberries.
Ingredients:
- Vinaigrette dressing (we recommend raspberry)
- 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
- 1 cup green leafy veggie (we suggest spinach)
- 2 T chopped walnuts
- 2 T feta cheese
Directions:
Mix all ingredients except dressing in a salad bowl. Top with dressing. Toss and serve.
5. Strawberry Sandwich
That’s right – a strawberry sandwich! A quick lunch has been so sweet!
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup sliced strawberries
- 2 T fat free cream cheese
- 2 slices of whole wheat bread
Directions:
Spread cream cheese onto both slices of bread. Top with strawberries. Place one slice of brad on top of the other, cut into quarters and serve.
Whether you are craving a dessert, a filling breakfast, or even a sandwich, strawberries are a versatile, healthy fruit choice.