How’s that for alliteration? I can’t promise that these recipes are completely sugar free, but strawberries are a valuable gem in the world of nutrition. Just one cup of strawberries provides more than 100% of a day’s supply of Vitamin C. . .and that’s just for starters. On top of that, eating strawberries provides protection against all manner of diseases including macular degeneration and rheumatoid arthritis. (Eating a variety of vegetables and fruits will do this. . .but strawberries are so delicious!) So although these recipes do have some sugar. . .go ahead and let your kids indulge just to get in that extra serving of fruit today! Or think of these as healthy desserts!
Strawberry-Lemon Parfaits
1 tub non-dairy whipped topping
2 teaspoons of lemon extract
3 cups of fresh strawberry
1 tablespoon of lemon zest (for garnish)
In a medium bowl, blend together the lemon extract and whipped topping. You can also add yellow food coloring. . .but I usually don’t.
In a tall parfait or sundae glass, layer cool whip mixture and sliced strawberries. (How easy is that?) Garnish with lemon zest.
Strawberry-Lime Slushies
Mix about 32 strawberries, one can of limeade concentrate, 1 cup of water and about 12 ice cubes in a blender. Blend the mixture until it is slushie consistency!
Strawberry Open Breakfast Sandwich (adapted from the California Strawberry Commission)
Mix together 8 ounces of low fat cream cheese, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Gently add 1/2 cup of finely chopped strawberries. Spread mixture over toasted English muffin or a toasted plain bagel. (To sneak in two servings of fruit, add another fruit on top like sliced bananas or fresh blueberries!)
Strawberry Breakfast Salsa (From the California Strawberry Commission)
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup Apricot jam, 3 tbsp. of water, 1 tsp. of cinnamon, and 2 pints of diced strawberries. For an interesting variation, consider adding some mint springs. Serve the ‘salsa’ over pancakes, or French toast as a healthier alternative to maple syrup.
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Want other tips and tricks to sneak more fruits and vegetables into you kids’ diets? Check out more advice from the Sneaky Mama!
Just love strawberries? Find more strawberry recipes here!