Pat Clarke celebrating the strawberry season

As we mark the arrival of summer, Ireland’s strawberry growers welcome one of the nation’s favourite summer fruits, the delicious strawberry.

The ‘Celebrate Strawberry Season’ campaign organised by Bord Bia in partnership with the Irish Soft Fruit Growers Association and the IFA is encouraging people to incorporate strawberries into their daily diets as a naturally sweet and healthy fruit option.

Strawberries are tastiest when they are in season from May to November in Ireland. Bord Bia Quality-Assured strawberries are grown by a network of Irish strawberry growers and are widely available to purchase in supermarkets nationwide throughout the growing season. One of those growing and producing strawberries for the nation to enjoy is Pat Clarke from Clarke’s Fresh Fruit based in Clinstown, Stamullen.

Pat Clarke from Clarke’s Fresh Fruit has established a reputation for the production of quality fresh fruit over the past 60 years. The business proudly specialises in producing and supplying Bord Bia Quality-Assured strawberries for some of Ireland’s leading supermarkets and stores.

The Healthy Treat

Not only are strawberries loved by the nation for their distinctive, sweet taste, but the fruit is also popular for its many nutritional benefits. Incorporating just one portion (approx 80g) of strawberries in meals or as a snack provides almost 100 per cent of the daily requirement of Vitamin C, which contributes to the normal function of the immune system and reduces tiredness and fatigue. Eating strawberries is a fantastic way to hydrate naturally and they also contain fibre, contributing to the overall function of the digestive system.

Strawberry Storage Tips

To best enjoy your fresh strawberries this summer:

1. Store in the fridge

2. Do not remove the stalks until you are ready to use

3. When ready to eat or cook with, remove their stalks, wash them in water and serve.

Strawberry Inspiration

Strawberries are a versatile and tasty ingredient to include in many sweet or savoury meals and can be simply washed and chopped for a treat. They are a delicious fruit to enjoy as a snack or as a great central ingredient to many dishes – strawberries are the breakfast time hero; add punch and sweetness to a fresh salad recipe; and elevate summer desserts with an explosion of flavour.

For delicious summer recipe inspiration, visit bordbia.ie and @BordBia on social media.