First Step: Gather and Prep the Ingredients Start with 4 cups of fresh strawberries, hulling and halving them this mise en place takes just 5 minutes to set up. Measure out 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and optional 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. For vegan adaptations, ensure your sugar source is plant-based; for low-calorie versions, skip the sugar; and note it’salready gluten-free. This step readies your strawberry puree for blending, keeping everything fresh and organized.

Second Step: Combine the Ingredients In a blender or food processor, add the halved strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and vanilla if using this takes about 2 minutes to combine. If making a low-calorie puree, use only the strawberries and lemon for a naturally sweet mix; for vegan options, proceed as is since all ingredients align. Blend on low speed to start, ensuring the mixture begins to break down evenly for your strawberry puree.

Third Step: Blend to Desired Consistency Blend the mixture on high for 1-2 minutes until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed for even texture. Adjust based•••• on your preference: a shorter blend for chunkier puree or longer for silky smooth. For dietary tweaks, if low-calorie, taste and add a splash of water if too thick; vegan users can add more lemon for zest. This step transforms the ingredients into a vibrant strawberry puree, ready for immediate use.

Fourth Step: Strain if Desired If you want a seed-free texture, strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve, which takes about 5 minutes of gentle pressing. This is optional for a smoother result, and for low-calorie adaptations, it’s a great way to keep it light without additives. Vegan and gluten-free versions remain unchanged here, allowing flexibility in your strawberry puree preparation.

Fifth Step: Taste and Adjust Taste the puree and add more sugar or lemon juice if needed, stirring for another 1 minute to incorporate this fine-tunes the flagr. For low-calorie needs, stick to adjustments with water or lemon; vegan prep stays simple. Once adjusted, your strawberry puree is vers ready for recipes or storage.

Final Step: Serve or Store Serve immediately as a topping or in smoothies, or portion into containers for later. The total time is under 15 minutes, and for all dietary preferences, this strawberry puree offers a freshичего, adaptable finish to your meal prep.