Strawberry Slab Pie can be a delicious dessert option, and while it may not offer significant health benefits compared to whole fruits and vegetables, it can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Here are a few potential benefits:
1. Nutrient content: Strawberries, the main ingredient in a strawberry slab pie, are packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function, collagen production, and acts as an antioxidant. Strawberries also provide fiber, manganese, folate, and various antioxidants.
2. Antioxidants: Strawberries contain antioxidants like anthocyanins, ellagic acid, and quercetin, which have been linked to various health benefits. Antioxidants help protect the body from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and may have potential anti-cancer properties.
3. Fiber: Strawberries are a good source of dietary fiber. Including fiber in your diet helps support healthy digestion, aids in maintaining a healthy weight, and can help lower the risk of certain diseases, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
4. Enjoyment and satisfaction: While nutritional benefits are important, enjoying the food we eat and finding satisfaction in our meals is also crucial for overall well-being. Including a delicious dessert like a strawberry slab pie as an occasional treat can contribute to a balanced approach to eating and promote positive relationships with food.
However, it’s worth noting that commercially prepared pies, including strawberry slab pies, often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and refined carbohydrates. Consuming such desserts in moderation is recommended, as excessive intake of added sugars and unhealthy fats can lead to weight gain, increased risk of chronic diseases, and other negative health effects.
To make a healthier version of a strawberry slab pie, consider using whole-grain crust options, reducing the amount of added sugars, and adding fresh strawberries as the main filling ingredient. This way, you can still enjoy the flavors while minimizing the potential negative impacts on health.
Strawberry Slab Pie
INGREDIENTS:
1 (11 oz.) package refrigerated pie crust
Filling:
32 oz. fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 1/2 cups lemon lime soda (we used sprite)
6 oz. strawberry jello
1 1/4 cups sugar
1/3 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
frozen whipped topping or whipped cream, garnish
PREPARATION:
-Preheat oven to 450º F.
-Turn both pie crusts out on a lightly floured surface and stack one on top of the other. Roll them out to roughly a 12×17-inch rectangle, then transfer crust to a large baking sheet (10×15-inches).
-Tuck any excess crust under itself, then crimp edges as desired, pricking the bottom and sides all over with a fork.
-Place baking sheet in oven and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until golden brown, then remove from oven and let cool.
-In a large saucepan over medium heat, whisk together jello packet, sugar and cornstarch, then pour in sprite and lemon juice.
-Bring mixture to a boil, stirring until thickened, then remove from heat and let cool 10-15 minutes.
-Once crust has cooled, arrange sliced strawberries on top, then pour (cooled) filling carefully on top.
-Refrigerate slab pie for 2+ hours, or until set, then slice, serve and enjoy.