National Strawberry Day

New student intern, Eliza Gillilan contributes today's blog entry...

It may seem odd that February would be the month of National Strawberry Day, but with their red color and heart-like shape it may be appropriate that they share the month with Valentine’s Day. Although not in season here in Northern New York, strawberries are an ever-present fixture in grocery stores in the area courtesy of Florida farmers and can be found locally starting in June through July. One of my favorite ways to eat strawberries is in strawberry shortcake, a classic dessert that, in my opinion, is appropriate in any season. Here is a recipe by Mary Nolan over at foodnetwork.com that received some especially good reviews.

What you will need:

               1 1/2 lbs strawberries, stemmed and quartered

                 5 tablespoons sugar

                 2 cups all-purpose flour

                 2 teaspoons baking powder

             1/4 teaspoon baking soda

             2 tablespoons sugar

          3/4 teaspoon salt

             1 1/2 cups heavy cream

Whipped Cream:

                1 1/2 cups heavy cream, chilled

                3 tablespoons sugar

                1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

                1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest

Get the directions here