Description
Italian Macerated Strawberries is a simple and elegant no-cook dessert featuring fresh strawberries gently coated with sugar, lemon juice, and aged balsamic vinegar to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor. This refreshing treat can be served on its own or paired with vanilla gelato or whipped cream for a delightful ending to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- A few fresh basil leaves or mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the sliced strawberries in a medium bowl. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the strawberries, then drizzle with fresh lemon juice and aged balsamic vinegar.
- Mix Gently: Stir gently until the strawberries are evenly coated with the sugar and liquids, allowing the flavors to mingle without bruising the berries.
- Macerate: Cover the bowl and let the strawberries macerate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense flavor, refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
- Stir and Garnish: Before serving, give the strawberries a gentle stir again. Add lemon zest and fresh basil or mint leaves if desired for a fresh aroma and added visual appeal.
- Serve: Serve the macerated strawberries on their own, over vanilla gelato, or with whipped cream for an easy and elegant dessert.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use aged balsamic vinegar rather than regular balsamic.
- Add a splash of limoncello for an adult twist to the dish.
- This recipe pairs beautifully with Italian desserts such as panna cotta or sponge cake.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
