Fresh Strawberries with Balsamic Vinegar and Basil

Michael Schlow

"It's About Time: Great Recipes for Everyday Life"

Quite possibly the quickest dessert I know. When I first heard about strawberries being served with balsamic vinegar and basil, it sounded like a mad scientist's experiment gone awry. But this is actually a classic Northern Italian dessert, and the interplay of flavors is surprisingly harmonious.

Ingredients:

4 cups strawberries, washed and hulled

1/2 cup sugar

4 ounces (1/2 cup) balsamic vinegar

1 Tbsp. honey

12 basil leaves, torn into small pieces

A few turns of the pepper mill

Directions:

Slice the strawberries in halves and quarters, depending on their size. Place all of the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Let macerate in the refrigerator for 10 to 30 minutes, as time allows. Serve in individual serving bowls, with cookies, whipped cream, ice cream or pound cake.