Strawberry Season is Beginning!

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Strawberry Season is Here! Plus a Savory Strawberry Recipe to Try!

There’s nothing quite like the arrival of strawberry season! As the weather warms, farmers' markets and grocery stores start filling up with plump, juicy strawberries, signaling the true arrival of spring. While we often associate strawberries with sweet treats like shortcakes and jams, they’re also fantastic in savory dishes. Today, we’re celebrating strawberry season with a delicious and unexpected recipe:

Strawberry & Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad.

Why Eat Strawberries?

Beyond their sweet, juicy taste, strawberries are packed with nutrients. They’re rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which support immune health, digestion, and heart health. Plus, their natural sweetness makes them a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.

Choosing the Best Strawberries

When shopping for fresh strawberries, look for ones that are:

• Bright red with no white or green patches

• Firm but not hard

• Fragrant with a sweet aroma

• Free from mold or excessive moisture in the container

For the freshest berries, consider visiting a local farm for a pick-your-own experience—it’s a fun way to celebrate the season while supporting local growers!

Strawberry & Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

This salad is the perfect combination of fresh, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s great for a light lunch or dinner and easy to customize with your favorite greens and toppings.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta

• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small jar, whisk together the remaining balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, strawberries, red onion, goat cheese, and toasted nuts. Toss with the dressing.

5. Add the Chicken: Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the salad. Garnish with fresh basil, if using.

6. Enjoy! Serve immediately as a refreshing and nutritious meal.

Other Ways to Use Strawberries in Savory Dishes

• Strawberry Salsa: Dice strawberries and mix with jalapeño, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro for a bright topping for grilled fish or tacos.

• Strawberry & Goat Cheese Crostini: Spread goat cheese on toasted baguette slices, top with sliced strawberries, and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

• Strawberry Caprese Salad: Swap out tomatoes for strawberries in a classic Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic.

  
  

As strawberry season begins, it’s the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen. Whether in salads, salsas, or savory appetizers, strawberries bring a burst of freshness to your meals. What’s your favorite way to use strawberries? Let’s chat in the comments!

Enjoy!