Description
Italian Macerated Strawberries is a simple, fresh dessert featuring sliced strawberries lightly sweetened and enhanced with a splash of balsamic vinegar and vanilla. The strawberries macerate to release their natural juices and meld the flavors, making it a perfect topping for ice cream, yogurt, or pound cake. This refreshing dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free, embodying the bright flavors of Italian summer fruit.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberries
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Mix-in
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Place the sliced strawberries in a large mixing bowl to create an even base for flavor absorption.
- Add Sweeteners and Flavorings: Sprinkle the strawberries with granulated sugar, then drizzle the balsamic vinegar and vanilla extract evenly over them. This combination helps release natural juices and infuses the berries with a complex flavor.
- Toss to Combine: Gently toss the strawberries to coat them thoroughly without bruising, ensuring all pieces are evenly flavored.
- Macerate: Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, the sugar draws out the juices from the strawberries, creating a luscious syrup and enhancing the overall taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the macerated strawberries on their own or as a topping over ice cream, yogurt, or pound cake. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired for an added touch of color and aroma.
Notes
- Use aged balsamic vinegar for a deeper, richer flavor profile.
- The dessert can be chilled for a few hours before serving to enjoy it cold and refreshing.
- For an adult variation, add a splash of limoncello to the mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
