National Berry Month is back for the second year running and this year the nationwide campaign – run by the industry body British Berry Growers – aims to raise awareness of the versatility, value and health benefits of our much-loved soft fruit.
It comes as new research by Love Fresh Berries to mark the month found that a quarter of Brits believe berries to be the tastiest fruit – with strawberries topping the charts and raspberries securing a close second.
However, berries don’t just taste delicious. They have multiple health benefits – helping support the heart, dental hygiene, mental health and even our sexual wellbeing – whilst also being incredibly versatile. They can be eaten raw, blended into smoothies, sprinkled on cereal, and used in sweet and savoury dishes.
With over half of Brits (55%) already buying strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries at least once a week amidst the cost-of-living crisis, chef Miguel Barclay has teamed up with Love Fresh Berries to highlight just how versatile and delicious berries can be as part of budget recipes.
Berry Recipes – Blueberry Studded French Toast
Miguel’s first recipe created for Love Fresh Berries is a real breakfast treat – scrumptious Blueberry Studded French Toast. The sweet and juicy blueberries perfectly compliment this comforting buttered toast whilst providing a good source of Vitamin C in the morning.
Berry Recipes – Raspberry & Brie Puff Pastry Wreath
Next up, a perfect light bite or starter to ‘tear and share’ with friends or family. This lightweight recipe with brie and raspberries looks impressive but is super easy to create at home. The Raspberry & Brie Puff Pastry Wreath contrasts the tangy sharpness of raspberries with the creamy melted brie and crumbly pastry.
Berry Recipes – Sausage, Parsnip, Carrot & Blackberry Tray Bake
This tasty tray-bake is easy to throw together in a flash when you’re short of time or fancy something simple to use up your groceries. The unique, slightly tart yet sweet flavour of blackberries pair nicely with the richness of the sausages and make this a healthy yet hearty dish.
Berry Recipes – Strawberry Mille-Feuille
This magnificent Mille-Feuille is well-worth the preparation and easier to create than you think. Looking beautiful on the plate with its elaborate layers of puff pastry and freshly sliced strawberries it is a real delight to eat. The sweetness of the strawberries paired with the velvety custard will make you savour every mouthful!
Thee Best Pina Colada On The Planet
