Strawberries are luscious simply eaten raw or in shortcake or fruit salad. Freezing is the best method of preserving strawberries for meals throughout the year. Canning causes strawberries to fade, float and become mushy. These berries can, however, be made into excellent sweet spreads. Strawberries dried in the form of fruit leather make an excellent, flavorful snack or lunch bag treat.
Fresh strawberries are highly perishable and delicate.
If not used immediately, remove berries from their containers right after picking or purchasing. Use fresh strawberries within one to two days for best quality. Use fresh strawberries just before you are ready to use. Washiong strawberries removes their natural protective outer layer, and if done before refrigerating, quality willdeteriorate rapidly. Leave caps on during washing to prevent water from soaking into the strawberry, diluting the flavor and changing the texture.