Strawberry season: local stands and delicious recipes

Last month, The Fresno Bee proclaimed the arrival of strawberries to the Valley, complete with a map of local stands. We met up with food writer Bob Rodriguez from the Bee at his favorite stand (closest to downtown) and local grower Sarn Saechao to discuss the delicious fruit that's so plentiful in our area.

TasteFresno Episode 033 - Saechao Strawberry Stand from Meza Films.

I first tried strawberries with rose water and mint (yum!) prepared by Daniel Mourad, who says you can get rose water at most Armenian markets (try Fresno Deli). It's so simple and light! You can also vary this recipe by using orange blossom water or by creating a simple syrup, adding rose water at the very end (see below).

Strawberries with Rose Water and Mint

Ingredients*

• 1 lb Strawberries
• 2 T. Rose Water (or more to taste)
• Fresh mint, chopped, to taste

Instructions

Halve or quarter strawberries, mix in fresh mint and sprinkle with rose water.

*for rose water syrup, create a simple syrup with 1 cup water and 1/4 cup sugar in a small saucepan. Simmer, stirring until sugar is melted. Turn off heat, then add rose water. After it cools, add to strawberries.

For an impressive strawberry dish to wow guests, try PinchMySalt's Strawberry Bruschetta. Enjoy!