Do you find yourself daydreaming about sunshine, summertime, and sweet summer strawberries? Us too! The current weather forecast may not be suitable for growing strawberries but won’t stop us from celebrating one of our favorite summer treats.
Since 2013, February 27th has been designated National Strawberry Day. No, it’s not the strawberry season – yet – but we can still commemorate this special day by learning some juicy tidbits about our little red friends.
It’s not exactly clear how strawberries got their name, but there are plenty of theories. Some believe strawberries got their name from being transported to market from the woods and fields on blankets of straw. Scholars theorize that the name originates from the Old English term meaning “strew” because the plant’s branches appear to be strewn across the ground. And there are others who think the name was inspired by the exterior seeds’ resemblance to little pieces of straw.
Strawberries can grow almost anywhere on the planet – weather permitting, of course. Due to their abundant availability, strawberries are considered a common berry across many cultures and lands, garnering universal adoration.
In addition to being everywhere, nearly every culture has a recipe (or several hundred) featuring any one of the 600 known varieties of strawberries. From strawberry preserves to strawberry rhubarb pie to toppings on salads, strawberries have a seat at the table for almost any meal.
Strawberries are fat-free, cholesterol-free, low in calories, and packed with Vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. Studies have also shown that strawberries aid in the fight against heart disease due to their high polyphenol content. Even the pickiest of eaters can enjoy this healthy and delicious snack.
The strawberry isn’t your run-of-the-mill berry. Here are a few surprising facts that set strawberries apart from the rest of the berry family.
Even though the strawberry-eating season is several months away, National Strawberry Day is our cue to start planning for the strawberry-GROWING season. Here are some ways to celebrate this important day:
While we patiently wait for our own crops of strawberries to come in, we’ll meet you at the supermarket to celebrate this momentous day with a delicious dessert!
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