Summer’s finally here in Quebec, and you know what that means? Strawberries! From late June to early August, our beautiful province turns into a strawberry paradise. The fields are bursting with these sweet, juicy berries, and the air smells delicious. I took the kiddos to Fraisebec, located at 420 Rang Lepage, Sainte-Anne-des-Plaines, QC, and had such a great time. We collected two big containers of fresh strawberries! I had a list of recipes I wanted to try this summer and one of them is strawberry salsa! Trust me, it’s a must-try this summer!

Strawberry Salsa: A Taste of Summer in Quebec

The Joy of Strawberry Picking

Strawberry picking isn’t just about gathering fresh berries; it’s a fun family activity bringing everyone closer to nature. All over Quebec, farms welcome visitors to come and pluck ripe strawberries straight from the plants. Kids and adults alike get a kick out of hunting for the biggest, reddest berries, filling baskets to the brim while soaking up the warm sun and fresh air.

This activity gives you a sense of accomplishment and teaches kids about where their food comes from. Plus, it’s a great way to appreciate the hard work of our local farmers and the natural beauty of Quebec’s farmlands. Visit Les Fraîches du Québec for a complete list of farms that are currently offering strawberry picking! Some of the farms has tons of fun activities as well!

Strawberry Salsa Recipe

Strawberry salsa is a refreshing twist on the traditional tomato salsa. It combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tang of lime and a hint of jalapeño spice. It’s super versatile and pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fish, or just as a dip with tortilla chips.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (you can use parsley as a substitute if you don’t like the taste), chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper (can use any colour you like) finely chopped
• 1/2 of a cucumber – diced
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon of honey (optional but it gives it a sweet taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced strawberries, red onion, and jalapeño pepper, bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Add the chopped cilantro and lime juice, mixing well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let the salsa sit for at least 15 minutes in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve with tortilla chips, or as a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or tacos.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Salsa

1. Freshness is Key: The star of this dish is the strawberry, so make sure to use the freshest berries you can find. If you’ve picked them yourself, they’ll be bursting with flavor. Be sure to eat within 1-2 days.
2. Balance the Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to suit your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds and use only half the pepper.
3. Acidity Matters: The lime juice not only adds tang but also helps preserve the vibrant color of the strawberries. Don’t skip it!
4. Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salsa to rest in the fridge for a bit before serving lets the flavors blend beautifully.

PIN IT!

Summer strawberry season in Quebec is a fleeting but magical time. It’s a chance to connect with the land, support local farmers, and indulge in the simple pleasures of fresh, seasonal produce. Whether you’re creating memories in the fields or whipping up a batch of strawberry salsa at home, these moments are what make summer truly special.

Have you tried strawberry salsa before? What other recipes should I try making with strawberries?

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