Strawberries are just starting to come into season, which means it’s the perfect time to have them in salads, parfaits or just on their own. Adding balsamic vinegar enhances and balances the strawberries’ sweetness. For the traditionalists, we’ve got a classic strawberries and balsamic recipe. But for those looking to add even more nuance to their fruit, the second recipe provides a twist on this picnic classic, using brown sugar, balsamic and fresh mint to create a more intense sweet-acidic contrast. Feel free to modify either recipe and borrow from both. And add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to quickly take this dish from berry salad to delicious dessert.
Traditional Strawberries with Balsamic Vinegar
Prep Time: 35 min
Cook Time: 0 min
Total Time: 35 min
Servings: 1-2
Ingredients:
2 cups strawberries, stemmed and quartered
1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 ½ tablespoons white sugar
Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Directions:
1. Combine strawberries, balsamic vinegar and sugar in a bowl.
Photo by Devon Carlson
2. Toss until strawberries are evenly coated.
3. Let sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature so berries can absorb the sauce.
Photo by Devon Carlson
4. When serving, toss strawberries one more time and dust with lemon zest.
Strawberries with Balsamic Reduction Drizzle
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 5 min
Total Time: 10 min
Servings: 1-2
Ingredients:
2 cups strawberries, stemmed and quartered
4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons brown sugar
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions:
1. Pour balsamic vinegar into a cooking pan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer.
Photo by Devon Carlson
2. Without raising the heat, let balsamic vinegar simmer until it has reduced to half of its original quantity, about 3 minutes.
3. Place strawberries in a bowl and drizzle with balsamic reduction.
Photo by Devon Carlson
4. Sprinkle brown sugar over strawberries.
Photo by Devon Carlson
5. Garnish with mint leaves.