It’s berry picking time! Well, it’s time for picking strawberries, that is. So get out to your local farmers market, roadside stand or U-pick farm to get your supply of this family favorite.

Whether you eat them fresh, add them to your favorite cereal, make a salad by adding them to spinach (another summer favorite) or use them on top of pancakes and waffles, they are red, ripe and juicy this time of year. Plus, they are good for you, too!

Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C, potassium and fiber. One serving of fresh berries (1 cup) contains 50 calories and no fat or cholesterol. They are a great choice for a low-calorie snack or dessert.

If you would like to capture that scrumptious flavor all year round, consider freezing strawberries or making strawberry jam. The National Center for Home Food Preservation provides you with the latest and safest information on doing both. Check out their website at www.uga.edu/nchfp, and click on the specific food preservation method you are interested in.

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Source: Brenda Derrick, MS, RD, University of Illinois Extension nutrition and wellness educator, Adams-Brown Unit, Quincy, IL, (217)223-8380