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Who doesn’t love a sweet juicy strawberry? Strawberries are one of the first fruits to ripen in the spring and early summer months. Here in the St. Louis Metro East IL area, our local farms are harvesting these delicious beauties in May and June. This peak season only last about three weeks, so be sure to head out to the farm and hand-pick some of these deep, shiny red little gems. As you might imagine, they have endless possibilities. Don’t let these little pieces of summer pass you by.
If you’re eagerly anticipating the arrival of sweet, juicy strawberries, it’s important to know how to pick the ripest ones. Lucky for you, I’ve got some helpful tips to ensure that your taste buds are in for a real treat.
How Can You Tell If Strawberries Are Ripe?
First things first, keep in mind that strawberries don’t ripen once they’re picked. So, avoid selecting berries with any white or green areas, as they won’t develop the desired sweetness. Of course, if you’re a fan of pickled green strawberries, then go ahead and grab them!
To ensure you’re selecting the ripest, juiciest berries, look for those with these characteristics:
- deep red color
- shiny and smooth skin
- no blemishes
- fresh green stems
- firm with taut skin
- distinct strawberry scent
Now, here’s a pro tip to keep your strawberries fresh: handle them with care! These delicate fruits are easily bruised, so be gentle when transporting and storing them. If you plan to enjoy your strawberries right away, go ahead and rinse, dry, and enjoy!
How to Keep Strawberries Fresh
But if you’re looking to save them for later, avoid washing them right away. Moisture can cause mold and make them turn mushy quickly. Instead, sort out any damaged strawberries and store them in a glass food storage container with airflow. If you don’t have one, the original container will do the trick.
Now, armed with these tips, you can confidently pick and store the ripest, freshest strawberries to enjoy all season long!
Strawberry Festivals in Metro East IL
St. Jacob Strawberry Festival
This Strawberry Festival is hosted by St. Jacob United Church of Christ.
When: Sunday, May 21, 2023
Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 p.m.
Location: St. Jacob Township Park, 239 W. Main St., St. Jacob, IL
There will be plenty of fun activities and entertainment: Music – Crafts – Kid -friendly attractions.
Enjoy food, such as Brats, Hot Dogs, Pork Burgers, and Sweet Strawberry Desserts.
Eckert’s Farm
When: May | Saturdays & Sundays
Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Belleville, IL Farm, 951 S. Green Mount Road
618-310-2758
Website: Eckert’s Farm
Facebook: Eckert’s Farm
Outdoor festival includes food, live entertainment, and Kids’ activities, including pony rides, a petting farm, and carnival rides.
(Fee charged for some activities.)
Downtown District – Belleville
Strawberry Festival
When: May | Saturdays & Sundays
Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Belleville, IL Farm, 951 S. Green Mount Road
618-310-2758
You may also like to view: Things To Do Near Edwardsville & The St. Louis Metro East
Here’s a simple recipe for a fresh strawberry smoothie:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
- 1 banana, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1-2 tablespoons honey (optional)
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
- Add the strawberries, banana, Greek yogurt, and milk to a blender.
- If desired, add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to sweeten the smoothie.
- Blend until smooth.
- If you want a thicker consistency, add a few ice cubes and blend again.
- Pour the smoothie into glasses and serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing fresh strawberry smoothie!
