10 Clever Ways to Use Strawberry Tops—Don’t Toss Those Nutrient-Packed Scraps!
Strawberries are undeniably delicious and packed with vitamins, but what about the leafy green tops we usually slice off and throw away? Surprisingly, those strawberry tops and stems are bursting with nutrition and can be repurposed in a variety of creative, healthful, and even delicious ways. Instead of composting or discarding them, consider these ten surprising no-waste ideas to make the most of your strawberry scraps.
Why Save Strawberry Tops?
Before diving into the uses, it’s worth noting the health benefits packed into strawberry leaves and stems. According to research from the University of Maryland Medical Center, these green parts are rich in vitamin C, iron, calcium, and tannins, which can aid digestion and soothe nausea or stomach cramps. They also contain caffeic acid, known for its anti-inflammatory effects—good news for those dealing with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
1. Infuse Your Water with Fresh Strawberry Tops
Add a refreshing twist to your hydration routine by tossing cleaned strawberry tops into a container filled with water. Let it steep in the fridge for a few hours, then enjoy a subtly flavored drink. You can even jazz it up by adding cucumber peels or fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of coolness. This is an excellent way to use leftover tops that might otherwise go to waste.
2. Craft Your Own Strawberry Vinegar
Vinegars infused with fruit scraps are trending, and strawberry vinegar is particularly delightful. Simply cover your strawberry tops with your choice of vinegar—whether white, apple cider, red wine, or balsamic—then let the mixture steep in a covered jar for about a week. Strain, and voilà! You have a unique vinegar perfect for drizzling on salads, mixing into sauces, or spiking your cocktails.
3. Whip Up Strawberry Syrup
Turn your strawberry tops into a luscious syrup that’s perfect for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream. Combine tops from about two quarts of strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, refrigerate overnight, then blend and strain for a smooth syrup. This versatile sweetener can also flavor lemonade, iced tea, or smoothies, adding a naturally fruity touch.
4. Boost Your Smoothies
Next time you’re blending a smoothie, toss in strawberry tops along with the fruit. Their leafy greens add nutrients much like spinach or kale, without altering flavor drastically. Pro tip: freeze tops after hulling to have a ready stash for smoothies that’s easy to grab whenever you want a health boost.
5. Infuse Alcohol for Flavorful Cocktails
Elevate your cocktail game by infusing spirits with strawberry tops. Place them in a jar with rum, vodka, or gin and let sit for a couple of days. Strain and use your flavored liquor to craft unique summer drinks with a subtle strawberry essence that’s entirely homemade.
6. Brew a Healing Tea
Strawberry leaves have been used traditionally as herbal remedies for digestive troubles and nausea. To make tea, dry the tops, then steep three to five fresh or dried leaves in boiling water for 5–10 minutes. Add lemon or a sweetener if desired. This tea not only soothes the stomach but cooled tea can also be applied to sunburns or inflamed skin for relief.
7. Natural Teeth Cleaner and Whitener
Here’s a little-known dental secret: strawberry leaves can help clean and whiten teeth. Their tannins act as astringents that fight plaque and support gum health. For whitening, dip a strawberry top in baking soda and gently rub it on your teeth, then brush as usual. It’s a gentle, natural way to brighten your smile.
8. Create a Unique Pesto or Salad Ingredient
Pesto doesn’t have to be just basil! Use strawberry tops alone or blend them with parsley and garlic for a fresh, green sauce perfect on pasta or as a salad dressing base. You can also toss chopped strawberry leaves into salads for a subtle texture and taste contrast—an easy way to boost nutrient content.
9. Soothing Bath for Skin Relief
Thanks to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, strawberry tops make a soothing addition to bathwater. Place them in a tea bag or infuser and drop it in your bath to help alleviate skin issues like rashes, eczema, or acne. Bonus: your pets can benefit from a strawberry top bath too, especially if they suffer from itchy or dry skin.
10. Treat Your Farm Animals
If you have backyard chickens, goats, rabbits, or other animals, strawberry tops make a nutritious snack for them. This simple way to recycle kitchen scraps not only reduces waste but also earns you some happy, healthy animals!
