“Brownie Strawberry Shortcake” & “Strawberry-Coconut Daiquiri Cocktail”

As May comes to a close there still is one more honor that we have to salute to and that is the “Strawberry.” The month of May is “National Strawberry Month.” This is when we can celebrate the love of strawberries, and be aware of the value this small sweet fruit has to offer. We also have to give a big shout out to our local farmers markets. They bring us their very best, fresh, safe, sweet fruits and vegetables that are grown here within our local neighborhoods. 

It is so important to buy local every season. The local greenhouses, farm fields and vineyards are what make our neighborhoods so special. We have to invest into our own community which is vital for each of our regions to thrive. There are 5 reasons to buy at your local farmers markets:

1. Know that your food comes from a safe environment. Strict polices and regulations are put into place to keep our food safe and free of all pesticides, so buy organic as well.

2. Growers often come from generations of farmers who lived and worked in local communities for many years. They are small farms and are family owned.

3. Taking care of the land and protecting the environment by helping to develop new ways to reduce our carbon footprints, water usage, recycling, and be active environmentalists.

4. Good for economic reasons, which create sales tax, income tax, and real estate tax. Businesses add a lot of tax for each state.

5. Jobs and employment helps support hundreds outside those on the farm. Machine manufactures, equipment, dealers, suppliers, and produce distributors. 

Now, let’s get back to one of my favorite berries, which is the strawberry. The Garden Strawberries is the most common name known and was first bred in France in the year of 1750. This fruit is known for its characteristic aroma, bright red color, juicy texture, and its sweetness. It can be either eaten fresh or frozen, as preserves, in pies, ice cream, milk shakes, and yogurt. Strawberries are also known as the romantic picnic foods. They can be added to cream, also dipped in chocolate, and use them for cake decorations. The strawberry is an excellent source of vitamin C and 1 cup equals 45 calories. Strawberries are an easy plant to grow, and can be grown almost anywhere in the world. The best time to plant strawberries are in the middle of spring. Strawberries can also be grown as a potted plant, and will still produce fruit. Some farmer’s markets or farms stands will allow you to pick your own strawberries. Harvesting your own food is not only a family affair but also connects you with where your food comes from, the Earth.

I remember a story when I was about 20 years old; I had some relatives that lived upstate on a farm. We had a fun summer that year with the family and the air just seemed to be fresher. One day my uncle took us to go strawberry picking at the local farms. I was so excited. Remember I lived in Queens, NY and I had never been berry picking or even knew anything about farms. As we were in the car and riding along to the farm, I thought I saw some strawberries in the trees. Here I am looking in the trees and not having any idea of how they grew. Needless to say that this “city girl” was laughed at by the family the whole trip. But I had no idea that they grew low to the ground. But it was one of the best days in my life, getting that close to nature and spending time with my family. (Besides eating strawberries)

So in honor of the Strawberry and farmers markets, I want to share 2 recipes with you this week, a “Brownie Strawberry Shortcake” and a “Strawberry-Coconut Daiquiri Cocktail.” These are easy and delicious recipes for dessert as you enjoy your spring and summer. Hope that you have fun, and always treasure your family time. If you want to try these delicious recipes, see below…….

“Brownie Strawberry Shortcake”

Brownies- Prepare a batch of brownies using your favorite box mix (for an 8″x8″ pan). Allow the brownies to fully cool, then cut into small (about 3/4 inch) squares.

Whipped Cream- Using 1 cup of cold heavy cream (often labeled heavy whipping cream), whip until it begins to thicken. While mixing, add 1-2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla. Continue to beat until desired consistency is reached. Be carefully not to over-beat.

Strawberries- Dice 1 pint of fresh strawberries into bite size pieces.

Assembly- Layer brownie bites, strawberries, and whipped cream in individual dishes. I used small glasses. Individual trifle dishes would work great as well. The ingredient quantities above will produce 6 small desserts. (With brownie left over) Feel free to adjust the quantities as needed. If desired, Cool Whip may be substituted for the whipped cream.

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“Strawberry-Coconut Daiquiri Cocktail”

To keep it cool in warmer weather, freeze fresh berries for 30 minutes before blending. Variation: for a non-alcoholic version, omit the Rum and add 1/2 cup additional strawberries.

Yield: 6 servings about 3/4 cup each
Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups (about 12 ounces) chopped fresh or frozen (not thawed) strawberries
3 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons lime juice
3 cups of ice cubes
3/4 cups coconut-flavored Rum, such as Malibu

Directions:
Combine strawberries, sugar, and lime juice together in a blender. Blend until smooth. Add ice cubes and Rum, now blend until frothy. Transfer mixture to a pitcher and serve. Add strawberry to top of glass for presentation. Enjoy! 

Please drink responsibly!

Till Next Time………..

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