Happy National Strawberry Day!

February 27th marks a delightful occasion for all you strawberry lovers out there. Happy National Strawberry Day! Did you know that strawberries have a rich history dating back to ancient times? Not only that, they also offer various health benefits. What better way to celebrate National Strawberry Day than to craft a strawberry-inspired dessert that is both delicious and healthy – Chocolate Covered Strawberry Yogurt Clusters.

Strawberries : Source

History of Strawberries

Initially strawberries were used for medicinal purposes. For a period of time in the 12th Century, they were pronounced as unfit to eat because the grew close to the ground, which meant they were contaminated. However, Charles Linnaeus debunked these beliefs by prescribing himself a diet of only strawberries. By the 19th century, strawberries were sold in London markets, and their cultivation expanded across Europe and North America. Explorers like Cartier and Harriot introduced strawberries to Europe from North America and Virginia, while varieties from Chile and Peru also contributed to their diversity. Breeding efforts in the 18th century led to improved varieties like the Pineapple strawberry. In the USA, the “Hudson” hybrid was developed in 1780, and refrigeration in 1843 enabled widespread shipping, further increasing their popularity. Today, strawberries are not only loved for their flavor but also for their cultural significance and versatility.

A bowl of strawberries with sliced strawberries on the left side: Source

Health Benefits

Strawberries are high in fiber and are low-glycemic, which means they have little effect on blood sugar. They have vitamins and high levels of antioxidants known as polyphenols. “They are among the top 20 high-antioxidant fruits and are a good source of manganese and potassium” (“Health Benefits of Strawberries”). According to an article by WebMD, approximately eight strawberries offers more vitamin C than an orange. Strawberries also have calcium, iron, potassium, folate, and magnesium, Another thing to note is that they have another type of antioxidant called anthocyanin. Anthocyanin is what gives them the red pigment. Therefore, the redder the strawberries, the more antioxidants they have.

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Yogurt Clusters

Now, what we’ve all been waiting for: The falvorful and easy recipe for the chocolate-covered strawberry yogurt clusters!

Chocolate covered strawberry yogurt clusters topped with nuts : Source

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla flavored)
• 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk chocolate)
• (Optional sweetener) 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for sweetness
• (Optional toppings) chopped nuts, shredded coconut, etc.

Instructions:

1. Rinse the strawberries under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel
2. Remove the stems and dice the strawberries into small pieces and set aside
3. In a mixing bowl, add Greek yogurt and combine with the diced strawberries
4. (Optional) Add honey or maple syrup to sweeten the mixture
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
6. Using a spoon, drop small dollops of the strawberry yogurt mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart
7. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze the yogurt clusters for 1-2 hours, until hardened
8. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth and fully melted
9. Once the yogurt clusters are frozen, remove them from the freezer
10. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each cluster into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly and allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the clusters back onto the baking sheet
11. (Optional) While the chocolate is still wet, you can sprinkle them with your desired toppings
12. Place the baking sheet back in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely. Serve and Enjoy!

Note: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Strawberries in paper cartons: Source

Works Cited

“Health Benefits of Strawberries.” WebMD, 26 Sept. 2020, www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-strawberry.

What Is the History Behind Strawberries? | North Carolina Strawberry Association. ncstrawberry.com/what-is-the-history-behind-strawberries.

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