Description
This Italian Macerated Strawberries recipe is a fresh, vibrant dessert that highlights ripe strawberries enhanced with balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, and fragrant basil. Perfect as a no-cook topping for gelato, yogurt, or pound cake, this easy-to-make dish captures the essence of summer with a delicate balance of sweetness and acidity.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 4–5 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Place the sliced strawberries in a large bowl. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the strawberries and gently stir to coat them evenly with sugar.
- Add Flavorings: Pour in the balsamic vinegar and sprinkle the lemon zest over the strawberries. Toss gently again until all ingredients are well combined.
- Macerate the Strawberries: Let the strawberry mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally as the berries begin to release their juices and develop a glossy, vibrant texture.
- Add Fresh Basil: Just before serving, gently stir in the thinly sliced fresh basil leaves to add a fresh herbal note to the dessert.
- Serve: Serve the macerated strawberries as-is or over vanilla gelato, Greek yogurt, or pound cake for an easy and elegant summer dessert.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use aged balsamic vinegar.
- Mint can be substituted for basil if preferred.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and stored for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
