Strawberries Are Here

It seemed like we had to wait forever this year, but local strawberries are now available.

This morning I took my first trip of the season to Quonset View Farm on Middle Road in Portsmouth in search of that familiar sweet goodness. If you have never had local Aquidneck Island strawberries then you have been really missing out. They are so much better than the fruit we are all forced to consume all winter that comes all the way from Southern California. Our berries are smaller, softer, much sweeter, and most importantly do not have to endure a 3,000 mile ride on the back of a truck guzzling diesel all the way.

The season is just about a month long so get out there, bring the kiddos, and get your hands dirty...and red. If you want to enjoy all year long cut off the tops throw em in a bag (invest in a vaccum sealer: they can be had for about $100) and stick them in your freezer for later.

Today and for the rest of the season Brick Alley Pub will feature Quonset View Strawberries on at least two items daily. First is a salad with spinach, crisp romaine, salty feta, Mung bean sprouts, sunflower kernels, and house-made Aquidneck Honey Vinaigrette. If you are making it at home remember: Mo Berries= Mo Betta.

For you dessert freaks out there try just taking some sliced strawberries and topping a cheese cake with them. The creamy neutral flavor of the cheese cake will allow the berries to really shine.

Good luck, and always have fun in the kitchen. See you back at The Brick again soon.

Matt Plumb