Spring treats

There is nothing like the real, ripe, red, juicy in-season fruits to enjoy during the spring season. With oranges still around and strawberry season at its peak, it is time to enjoy all the treats of amazing fruits and much more

Strawberry ice pops

Just when the weather is beginning to thaw and warmer days are approaching; it is a good idea to make strawberry ice pops in advance. Purée 1 cucumber and one cup of frozen strawberries, lime zest, lime juice, and sugar in a blender until very smooth; transfer to a large pitcher or measuring cup. Season with salt and stir to combine. Pour strawberry-cucumber mixture into ice-pop molds. Cover and insert sticks. Freeze until solid, at least 4 hours and enjoy the cool, refreshing taste of ice pops.

Minty Pineapple fruit salad

This is one of the easiest yet most delicious and nutritious fruit treat to prepare. Mix chunks of pineapple and strawberries with crushed mint leaves and lemon zest. Add honey for added flavour. Serve cold with lemonade.

Homemade lemon curd

Lemon curd is a scrumptious spread for scones, biscuits or other baked goods. In a small heavy saucepan over medium heat, whisk three eggs, one cup sugar and ½ cup lemon juice until blended. Add quarter cup butter and one tablespoon lemon zest; cook, whisking constantly, until mixture is thickened and coats the back of a metal spoon. Transfer to a small bowl; cool 10 minutes. Refrigerate, covered, until cold. You don’t need to limit yourself to lemons! This curd recipe and method will work with any citrus fruit, so try it with limes, oranges or grapefruit for a little variety.

Chocolate covered strawberries

In a double boiler, melt around 15 ounces of chocolate chips and two tablespoon shortening, stirring occasionally until smooth. Holding them by the toothpicks, dip the strawberries into the chocolate mixture. Insert toothpicks into the tops of the strawberries. Turn the strawberries upside down and let the chocolate cool. Enjoy the amazing taste of chocolate and fresh strawberries.

Strawberry ice-cream

This is a fast way to make delicious ice cream without compromising quality. Combine nearly two dozen frozen strawberries with half cup sugar in a food processor or blender. Process until the fruit is roughly chopped. With the processor running, slowly pour in two-third cup of the heavy cream until fully incorporated. Serve immediately, or freeze for up to one week. Sprinkle some mint leaves on top for added flavour.

Strawberry cottage cheese

Take about two cups of curd (two days old), add a pinch of salt and black pepper and let it stand in a muslin cloth overnight. Once all the water has drained out, remove from muslin and add pureed strawberries. Mix well and serve with tacos.