Choose strawberries that are uniformly bright red. Avoid those with white or green tips, as they may not be fully ripe.
A shiny appearance indicates freshness and ripeness. Dull or shriveled skin suggests the fruit is past its prime.
– Fresh, green leaves signify that the strawberry was recently picked. Wilted or brown leaves can be a sign of age. –
Gently squeeze the strawberry; it should be firm but yield slightly under pressure. Mushy spots can indicate overripeness or bruising.
A sweet, fragrant aroma is a good indicator of flavor. Lack of scent may mean the strawberry is under-ripe.
Check for any signs of mold or soft, mushy areas. These can spread quickly and spoil the entire batch.
Strawberries are typically in season during spring and early summer. Purchasing during these times ensures peak sweetness and flavor.