Peanut butter and strawberries can make for a delicious combination when enjoyed together. The sweet taste of ripe, juicy strawberries contrasts nicely with the nutty, salty flavor of peanut butter. While this pairing may seem unorthodox, it’s a snack that’s worth trying for peanut butter lovers and fruit fans alike.
The flavor profile
At first glance, peanut butter and strawberries may seem like odd bedfellows when it comes to taste. But the mix of sweet and salty, fruit and nut, is what makes this combination work so well. The sweetness of the strawberries balances the salty richness of peanut butter remarkably well. The fruit’s juicy flavor also helps cut through the nutty thickness of the peanut butter.
When paired, the flavors of strawberries and peanut butter really complement each other. The strawberry flavor comes through brightly, allowing the fruit’s sweetness to shine. The peanut flavor remains prominent but is softened by the strawberry’s acidity. Together they make for an intriguing flavor combo – sweet and tart yet nutty and savory at the same time.
Nutritional benefits
In addition to tasting great together, peanut butter and strawberries offer some nice nutritional perks. Peanut butter delivers protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamin E, magnesium and more. Strawberries provide vitamin C, manganese, folate, potassium and antioxidants.
Enjoying peanut butter with strawberries can be a tasty way to get nutrients from both plants and nuts. The combination provides a balance of carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. As a snack, peanut butter and strawberries can supply a nutritious energy boost.
Macronutrients
Two tablespoons of peanut butter contains about:
- 190 calories
- 8 grams protein
- 16 grams fat
- 6 grams carbohydrates
- 2 grams fiber
One cup of sliced strawberries contains about:
- 50 calories
- 1 gram protein
- 0 grams fat
- 12 grams carbohydrates
- 3 grams fiber
Together one serving provides nearly 250 calories, 9 grams of protein, 16 grams of fat and 18 grams of carbohydrates. The fiber, protein and healthy fats help provide lasting energy, while the carbs deliver a quicker boost.
Micronutrients
One serving of peanut butter and strawberries can also provide:
- Vitamin C – 84% RDA
- Manganese – 35% RDA
- Vitamin E – 25% RDA
- Folate – 12% RDA
- Magnesium – 12% RDA
- Potassium – 12% RDA
The vitamin C comes mainly from the strawberries, while the peanut butter provides the vitamin E, magnesium and folate. Together they make a nutrient-packed snack.
Possible downsides
Peanut butter and strawberries also come with a few possible downsides to consider:
- Allergies – Those with peanut or strawberry allergies should avoid this combination.
- High calorie – The combo can be high in calories, so portion sizes need to be controlled.
- High carb – Strawberries affect blood sugar, so people with diabetes need to account for the carbs.
- Pesticides – Strawberries are prone to high pesticide levels, so organic is ideal.
As long as you account for any allergy or dietary restrictions, peanut butter and strawberries can be enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet.
Preparation tips
There are plenty of simple ways to enjoy the pairing of peanut butter and strawberries:
On bread or toast
Spread peanut butter on a slice of bread or toast, then top with sliced fresh strawberries. The hot toast slightly melts the peanut butter creating even more flavor.
As a dip
Dip fresh, whole strawberries into peanut butter for an easy snack on the go. Kids especially enjoy this fun way to eat the combo.
On crackers
Top your favorite whole grain crackers with peanut butter and a strawberry slice. Salted crackers like Wheat Thins complement the flavor combo nicely.
In oatmeal
Mix sliced strawberries, peanut butter and oats together and enjoy as overnight oats. The peanut butter softens overnight and creates a creamy strawberry peanut butter sauce.
In smoothies
Blend peanut butter, strawberries, milk/milk alternative and ice for a delicious smoothie. Banana can be added too for extra creaminess.
As a sauce
Blend together peanut butter and strawberries into a sauce to drizzle over yogurt, ice cream, pancakes, waffles, etc. Adjust texture with a little milk if needed.
On pancakes or waffles
Top your favorite pancakes or waffles with fresh strawberries and peanut butter for a filling breakfast or snack.
On yogurt
Layer yogurt with sliced strawberries then swirl in and top with peanut butter. Granola can be added too for crunch.
On fruit salad
Toss strawberries with other fruits like bananas and grapes, then drizzle with peanut butter sauce.
As a sandwich filling
Use peanut butter and sliced strawberries as a filling between two slices of bread for a simple sandwich.
Does it work with other nuts or fruits?
While peanut butter and strawberries are a classic combo, you can try swapping in different nuts and fruits too. Here are some other tasty options:
Nut butters
- Almond butter
- Cashew butter
- Sunflower seed butter
- Walnut butter
Fruits
- Bananas
- Apples
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Pineapple
- Cherries
- Pears
- Peaches
Mix and match your favorite nut butter with different fresh fruits. The combo of sweet fruit and nutty butter works well together.
The verdict
When enjoyed in moderation, peanut butter and strawberries make for a nutritious, flavorful snack or meal addition. The sweet and salty taste pairing satisfies cravings while providing protein, healthy fats and various vitamins and minerals.
Just be mindful of portion size, as the combo can be high in calories. Watch out for added sugars and oils in flavored commercial peanut butters too. But for a simple snack that delivers nutrition along with crowd-pleasing flavor, peanut butter and strawberries is a winning match.