Fun ways to utilise leftover strawberries. (Image Credit: Istock)
Strawberry season has officially begun, and we can't keep calm. The joy of eating fresh and juicy strawberries often makes us buy them in bulk. You may feel like you'll end up finishing them in one sitting, but this is not the case. More often than not, you end up with extra boxes of strawberries only to realize they become mushy and soggy. But just because they look bad doesn't mean they don't taste good. You'll be surprised to know that there are numerous ways in which you can repurpose them and enjoy them to the fullest. Are you intrigued to know how? Read on to discover five such fun and exciting ways to transform your leftover mushy strawberries.
Also Read: 5 Delicious Strawberry Desserts To Indulge In This Winter Season
What To Do With Leftover Mushy Strawberries? 5 Interesting Ways To Use Them:
1. Whip up a smoothie
There's nothing quite as satisfying as sipping on a freshly made smoothie. It is ready in just under a few minutes and offers the perfect balance of health and taste. To make a strawberry smoothie, simply add the overripe strawberries to a blender along with milk, yogurt, sugar, and a splash of vanilla. Add in some ice cubes, and then just blend, blend, and blend! This tasty smoothie is an instant pick-me-up and perfect to enjoy for breakfast. Here's the full recipe for you to try.
2. Make a jam/compote
Yes, you can make delicious jam using leftover mushy strawberries as well. Just transfer the strawberries to a pan set on a low-medium flame. Crush them nicely, add a bit of water and lemon juice, and cook for a few minutes to make the jam. You can also add the whole strawberry pieces to give it a chunkier texture and make a compote. Either way, they are both great ways to repurpose leftover strawberries.
3. Add it to baked goods
Strawberry-flavored desserts can never go wrong. Be it a luscious cheesecake, a pie, or a tart, the flavour and aroma of strawberry come out beautifully in these desserts. This makes overripe strawberries the perfect candidate to whip up delicious sweet delights. Enjoy them as is, or pair them with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee to make it even more indulgent. If you're looking for some recipe inspiration, here are some ideas to get started with.
4. Add it to cocktails/mocktails
Another great way to make the most of leftover mushy strawberries is to add them to your drinks. Whether you're making a cocktail or mocktail, they are going to make it taste a lot better. It's a wonderful idea for those who enjoy fruity drinks. Strawberry margaritas, strawberry mimosas, strawberry daiquiris - your options are endless when it comes to making cocktails. For mocktails, lemonade, mojitos, and iced tea are some refreshing options you must try.
Also Read: This Drink Recipe Upgrades Your Strawberry Milkshake In The Most Delicious Way
5. Make frozen desserts
Overripe strawberries can be used to make some divinely delicious frozen desserts. Cook them with sugar, and then blend them into bases for your ice cream, sorbets, or popsicles. Making these desserts at home from scratch has its own charm, and you can also be more mindful of the ingredients. Store-bought frozen desserts often contain artificial sweeteners and additives, making these homemade versions a healthier alternative. Now, isn't that a great way to use your leftover, mushy strawberries?
Overripe strawberries can be used in a myriad of different recipes. Try the one as per your preference and prevent them from going to waste.