Strawberries with Balsamic Vinegar

Strawberries and balsamic vinegar are a classic pairing. The elegance of a good balsamic vinegar married to a freshly picked strawberry is timeless and easily achieved. This is especially good served over some vanilla ice cream, or a pound cake.

Ingredients

• 1 quart strawberries, rinsed, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 pint blackberries or blueberries, optional
• 1/4 cup sugar, or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon high-quality balsamic vinegar, or more to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh mint leaves for garnish, optional

Method

• Toss strawberries and other berries, if using, with the 1/4 cup sugar, and let sit for 10 minutes or longer. Do not refrigerate.
• Sprinkle with the vinegar; toss gently, then taste and add more sugar or vinegar if necessary. Sprinkle with the pepper, toss again, and serve, garnished with the mint, if you like.

Serves 4
Recipe from Mark Bittman, The New York Times