Featured Local Source: Swanton Berry Farm

Davenport & Pescadero

Sweet, flavorful strawberries grow in abundance along the San Mateo County Coast. Popular varieties grown locally include Albion, Chandler, Mara des Bois and Seascape. The choicest berries at farmers markets are available in April, May and June.

Strawberries start out white on the plant; fully ripe berries are a bright, even shade of red with fresh green caps. Avoid unripe berries that are greenish or yellow or have soft spots or mold. 

Before eating, wash fresh strawberries by rinsing them thoroughly and lightly patting dry with a towel. Carve out the cap and hull with the tip of a paring knife. Ripe strawberries are perishable and they should be eaten within one to two days. Store berries in the refrigerator in single layers between paper towels, keeping them unwashed until ready to use. To freeze whole berries, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, berries can be kept for up to one year in freezer bags or containers.

Strawberries are a versatile fruit and perform well under many cooking methods including roasting, stewing, pickling, baking into a pie or jamming. However, strawberries really shine when eaten raw, completely unadorned.