Brooke Beam, PhD
Agriculture and Natural Resources/Community Development Extension Educator
Ohio State University Extension, Highland County
Strawberries are ready to pick in our region, providing a great family outing to a u-pick stand as well as making a great dessert. While COVID-19 may have changed some procedures at u-pick strawberry stands, they are open for business when the weather is cooperative. Be sure to check with the farm to determine strawberry availability, hours of operation, and whether or not you need to bring a mask. You can also check local farmers markets for strawberries if you would rather not pick your own berries.
As I reside in Clinton County, I am a fan of the banana split. Wilmington is where the banana split originated in 1907, although it should be noted that this claim is contested with a town in Pennsylvania. In the early 1900s, you could purchase a banana split for just $0.10. However, it will cost a little more today to purchase or make a banana split.
Due to COVID-19, the banana split festival was cancelled for this year, however this provides the opportunity to create your own version of a banana split with your local strawberries. The traditional banana split is a combination of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla ice cream, a banana, chocolate sauce, pineapple, strawberries, whipped cream, nuts, and cherries.
While there are endless uses for strawberries this season, I encourage you to try a new recipe and incorporate local ingredients into your kitchen.