We just returned from an all inclusive break in Benidorm, and yesterday, as we were wandering around the market, we smelled the unmistakeable aroma of fresh strawberries. Although they are always around here in Spain, we don't buy them until we can smell them from a distance, because then you can tell that you're really in strawberry season.
As we arrived at the stall, we were met with a vision of loveliness - huge strawberries, each one over 2" long and just begging to be eaten. At 5.50 Euro for a 2 kilo box, they are not the cheapest strawberries we've ever bought, but we got them anyway, after the obligatory tasting.
Strawberries and cherries are my two favourite fruits, and since we've been in Spain, I've pigged out on both of them. However, as they're loaded with antioxidants and low on calories, I can indulge with a clear conscience. The really great thing for me about strawberries is that they are also anti-inflammatory, and as I can't take anti-inflammatory medication for my Lupus for various reasons, strawberries are like medicine for me.
I love to eat them straight from the box - and I can safely do that, as the strawberries on sale in the street markets tend to be organic. Small producers don't use pesticides, and most of the stall holders on the markets are small producers.
When I serve them up as a dessert, though, I quarter them and sprinkle them with a little Moscatel wine , then shred a few mint leaves and scatter them over the top. The Moscatel imparts a lovely flavour, and it also helps to preserve the strawberries for another day.
Ever since we've been in Spain, I've promised myself I'd make strawberry jam, but the trouble is, Tony and I tend to scoff them before I can dust down the preserving pan. However, the strawberry season seems to have come early this year, so maybe we'll get fed up of them, and I can rescue a couple of kilos for jam. Some hopes!
