Frugal Fruit: Seasonal Berries

I love a lot of different kinds of foods (I’m definitely a foodie), but if I had to pick a favorite, strawberries would be high on the list.  I really like berries with yogurt and granola, a breakfast regular during the summer; or strawberry shortcake, or strawberries with creme fraiche and brown sugar.  Extraordinarily expensive when out of season, seasonal berries are much cheaper per pound.  In addition, take advantage of berries at the end of the farmers market day or on quick sale by using up very ripe berries in a fruit salad. Be sure not to wash berries until just before using to keep them from turning soggy.

My general fruit salads are simply cut up fruit.  I outlined a winter fruit salad that has apples, bananas, and oranges.  Below is my summer version containing berries, stone fruits and melons. If the fruit are perfectly ripe, I add no additional sweetener and serve this as a healthy colorful dessert. In addition, I’ve included a special ‘recipe’ that I use for balsamic strawberries. This is great for spring strawberries that aren’t quite at their summer sweetness. Together with watermelon and feta salad, and peach and tomato salad; there’s a trifecta of interesting fruit salads to choose from to bring to a potluck or serve at a picnic.

Summer Fruit Salad

2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup blackberries or blueberries
2 peaches or nectarines, sliced
2 cups melon cubes (watermelon or cantelope)

Combine all fruit in a large bowl and mix gently. Serve immediately, or cover and store in the refrigerator.  Can be served with ice cream, frozen yogurt, or whipped cream, or stirred into a pitcher of sangria.

Balsamic Strawberries

1 to 1-1/2 pints of strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 T balsamic vinegar
1 T brown sugar

In a bowl combine strawberries, balsamic vinegar and brown sugar.  Stir and let sit for about 30 minutes before serving.   Serve as is or over vanilla ice cream or poundcake.

see other ideas at Frugal Friday, Ultimate Recipe Swap, and Food Renegade