Welcome springtime with fresh strawberry bisque from The Ingles Table

Spring officially begins today at 5:58 p.m. and there’s no better way to welcome the warmer months than with fresh strawberries – the sweet, red heart-shaped fruit loved for its delightful taste and nutritional benefits.

Strawberries are rich in vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. They contain manganese and potassium, and about eight strawberries have more vitamin C than an orange.

The health benefits of antioxidant-rich strawberries can include improved heart health, better brain function, enhanced eye and skin health, and relief from high blood pressure, arthritis, and gout.

Strawberries are often eaten raw or added to fruit salads and custards. And strawberry extract is used in ice creams, jams, jellies, squashes, syrups, candies and chocolates.

In this video, Chef Bruce Brown of Bruce’s Fabulous Foods in Marion, North Carolina shares his recipe for Strawberry Bisque, a natural-tasting spring and summer treat.

Shopping List
2 packs of fresh strawberries, cleaned and topped
1 cup orange juice
1 cup sugar-free citrus soda
1⁄4 cup sugar (optional)
2 cups heavy cream
Kiwi slices for garnish

Instructions
Blend the strawberries until smooth in a food processor. If preferred, press the strawberry mixture through a wire-mesh colander to strain out the seeds.

In a mixer on low speed, add the orange juice and soda to the strawberries, slowly stirring in to not splash.

Also on low speed, add the heavy cream and mix until thoroughly incorporated. Place in a sealed container and chill for two hours minimum. Serve in bowls with floated kiwi slices on top to add color.

For more seasonal recipes, visit The Ingles Table.