WATSONVILLE, Calif. — To celebrate National Strawberry Month in May, the California Strawberry Commission partnered with celebrity chef and restaurateur, Brian Malarkey, to take classic summer dishes from ordinary to fabulous by just adding strawberries. Additionally, the Commission is "painting it red" with a #StrawberryRed digital camera giveaway. For the new recipes, and to learn more about the giveaway, visit www.californiastrawberries.com.
Former "Top Chef" finalist and judge of "The Taste," Brian is known for his love of using fresh and seasonal ingredients in the dishes served at his restaurants in L.A., San Diego and Austin. Adding his personal touch to summertime favorites, Brian created fresh new recipes like Citrus Halibut with a Strawberry Relish and a Sweet and Tangy Strawberry Brandy Barbecue Sauce for ribs. These dishes illustrate how easy it is to just add California strawberries to any recipe.
"I love adding fresh, seasonal ingredients to my recipes at my restaurants and at home," said Brian Malarkey. "Strawberries have a unique quality because they can be added to both sweet and savory dishes, and really do have a way of adding a surprising pop of flavor to any dish, making it extra special and tasty."
With more than 2.3 billion pounds harvested annually, nearly 90 percent of strawberries produced in the U.S. come from California. While available 365 days a year, California strawberries are most abundant from March through August. Low in sugar and packed with nutrients, eating just eight strawberries a day may improve heart and brain health, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of some cancers.
"We are excited to team up with Brian Malarkey to celebrate strawberries in a way that everyone can enjoy," said Chris Christian, senior vice president, California Strawberry Commission. "Strawberries are delicious alone, but can be easily added to almost anything as you'll see in the unique recipes Brian created for us."
Source: California Strawberry Commission