Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Balsamic Strawberries are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, making them a perfect topping or appetizer. The strawberries are tossed in a balsamic reduction sauce with a hint of brown sugar, creating a vibrant, savory-sweet balance. This dish is simple to make and versatile, perfect for serving over crostini with ricotta or as a topping for desserts or salads.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ½ cup strawberries (chopped)
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 5 tbsp ricotta (optional, for serving with crostini)
Directions
- Toast baguette slices at 350°F for 5 minutes until golden.
- Chop strawberries into small pieces. (Optional: Let them sit on a paper towel to release juice if they’re very ripe).
- In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar with brown sugar over medium heat for 6-8 minutes.
- Add lemon zest to the strawberries, then pour the balsamic reduction over them and stir gently.
- Spread ricotta on each toasted baguette slice and top with the balsamic strawberries.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 crostini
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Mascarpone: Swap ricotta for mascarpone for a creamier texture.
- Toppings: Use balsamic strawberries as a topping for salads, desserts, or even grilled meats.
Storage/Reheating
Store the balsamic strawberry mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture, as frozen strawberries can release too much liquid.
How can I make the balsamic sauce thicker?
Allow the balsamic vinegar to reduce longer for a thicker consistency.
Can I serve this with something other than crostini?
Yes, balsamic strawberries are also delicious on salads or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or vanilla ice cream.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
You can use other vinegars, but balsamic vinegar provides the best flavor for this recipe.
How can I make this a dessert?
Serve the balsamic strawberries with a sweet dessert cheese like mascarpone or on a dessert crostini with a drizzle of honey.
Conclusion
Balsamic Strawberries are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the freshness of strawberries with the rich depth of balsamic vinegar. Whether served as an appetizer, topping, or side dish, they add a burst of flavor to any meal. With their simple preparation and delicious taste, these strawberries are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Print
Balsamic Strawberries
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 crostini
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Balsamic Strawberries are a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect as a topping, appetizer, or side dish. The strawberries are tossed in a balsamic reduction with brown sugar and lemon zest, creating a vibrant, savory-sweet balance. Whether served on crostini with ricotta, as a salad topping, or drizzled over desserts, these Balsamic Strawberries are quick, easy, and versatile, making them an ideal addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- ½ cup strawberries (chopped)
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 5 tablespoons ricotta (optional, for serving with crostini)
Instructions
- Toast the Baguette: Toast baguette slices at 350°F for 5 minutes until golden.
- Prepare the Strawberries: Chop strawberries into small pieces. If they’re very ripe, let them sit on a paper towel to release excess juice.
- Make the Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar with brown sugar over medium heat for 6-8 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add lemon zest to the chopped strawberries, then pour the balsamic reduction over them and stir gently to combine.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread ricotta on each toasted baguette slice and top with the balsamic strawberries.
Notes
- Mascarpone: Swap ricotta for mascarpone for a creamier texture.
- Toppings: Use balsamic strawberries as a topping for salads, desserts, or grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Topping
- Method: Stovetop, Toasting
- Cuisine: Italian
