Strawberry Balsamic Salsa is a refreshing and unique twist on traditional salsas, perfect for summer gatherings. The combination of ripe strawberries, tangy balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs like basil and mint creates a sweet and savory treat. This versatile salsa can be used in a variety of ways, from a topping for grilled meats to a dip for pita chips, or even as a topping for shortcakes. It’s quick to make and offers a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with both savory and sweet dishes.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound strawberries, trimmed and cut into ¼-inch dice

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 1-3 tablespoons light brown sugar (depending on sweetness of berries)

• ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (plus additional to taste)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint

Directions

1. Prepare the Salsa: In a medium bowl, stir together the diced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and black pepper. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to macerate.

2. Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped basil and mint. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more black pepper or brown sugar as needed.

3. Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutrients

• Calories: 105 kcal per serving

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Protein: 1g

• Sodium: 6mg

• Potassium: 347mg

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 18g

• Vitamin A: 240 IU

• Vitamin C: 134.1mg

• Calcium: 42mg

• Iron: 1.1mg

The Sweet and Tangy Base of Strawberries and Balsamic Vinegar

The base of this salsa is made with fresh strawberries, which provide a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color. The strawberries are diced into small pieces, allowing them to mix easily with the other ingredients and creating a texture that’s both refreshing and juicy.

The addition of balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity and richness, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries. Balsamic vinegar also brings a complex depth of flavor that enhances the overall salsa, offering both tang and a hint of sweetness, which complements the fruit perfectly.

The Brown Sugar: Balancing Sweetness

To further enhance the sweetness of the strawberries and balsamic vinegar, light brown sugar is added. The amount of sugar can vary depending on the natural sweetness of the strawberries, and it helps to soften the acidity of the vinegar. The brown sugar provides a warm sweetness that complements the fruit while also balancing the tanginess from the balsamic vinegar, creating a harmonious flavor that is not too sharp or too sweet.

Fresh Herbs: Basil and Mint

The fresh herbs, basil and mint, bring aromatic brightness to the salsa. Basil adds a slightly peppery, sweet note, while mint contributes a cool, refreshing flavor that makes this salsa even more vibrant. The herbs add an extra layer of complexity, bringing the flavors together and making the salsa aromatic and lively.

Both basil and mint are classic herb pairings with strawberries, and they provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the fruit and the tanginess of the vinegar. These fresh herbs give the salsa its signature flavor, and they also elevate the dish’s visual appeal with their bright green color.

Marinating the Salsa: Allowing the Flavors to Develop

Once the ingredients are mixed together, it’s important to let the salsa sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to macerate. During this time, the strawberries will release their juices, and the balsamic vinegar will infuse the fruit with its tangy sweetness. This resting time allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a salsa that is full of flavor with every bite.

You can taste the salsa after the resting period and adjust the seasoning by adding more cracked black pepper or brown sugar, depending on your preference. Some might like a little more sweetness, while others may prefer an extra touch of pepper to bring out the savory notes of the balsamic vinegar.

Serving and Versatility

Strawberry Balsamic Salsa is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of dishes. Here are a few ways to serve this salsa:

• As a topping for grilled meats: The sweetness of the strawberries and the acidity from the vinegar make this salsa an excellent topping for grilled chicken, pork, or even beef. It adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky flavors of the meat.

• As a dip for pita chips or crackers: The salsa is perfect as a dip for pita chips, tortilla chips, or crackers, offering a unique twist on traditional salsas that are typically tomato-based.

• As a topping for shortcakes or desserts: For a sweet twist, try serving the salsa on top of shortcakes, vanilla ice cream, or a slice of pound cake. The sweet and tangy salsa pairs wonderfully with light desserts, adding an extra burst of flavor.

• In a salad or on a cheese platter: Strawberry Balsamic Salsa can also be used as a topping for a fresh summer salad, or as part of a cheese and charcuterie platter, where the sweet and savory notes complement cheeses like goat cheese or brie.

Why Strawberry Balsamic Salsa is Perfect for Summer

This salsa is ideal for summer because it combines fresh, in-season strawberries with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar, making it a refreshing, light dish that is perfect for warm weather. The natural sweetness of the strawberries is enhanced by the vinegar and sugar, creating a salsa that’s both fruity and savory. The addition of fresh basil and mint adds a burst of color and freshness that is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or any casual gathering.

Its versatility also makes it a great addition to any summer menu, whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, as a dip, or as a dessert topping. The ease of preparation and the vibrant flavors make this salsa a perfect dish for any occasion.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Strawberry Balsamic Salsa contains approximately 105-130 calories, making it a light and refreshing option. The salsa is low in fat, with around 0 grams per serving, and contains only about 6mg of sodium, making it a heart-healthy choice. It’s rich in vitamin C, providing 30-40% of your daily recommended intake per serving, thanks to the strawberries, which boost your immune system.

The salsa also offers fiber (around 4 grams per serving) from the strawberries, contributing to digestive health. While the sugar content is naturally high (about 18g per serving), the brown sugar used adds a richer flavor without overwhelming the freshness of the fruit. The addition of basil and mint provides small amounts of iron and calcium, making the salsa a nutrient-packed addition to any meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Strawberry Balsamic Salsa is a flavorful and refreshing dish that offers a unique twist on traditional salsa. The combination of sweet strawberries, tangy balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs creates a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with both savory and sweet dishes. Whether served as a topping for grilled meats, a dip for chips, or a complement to desserts, this salsa is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors, Strawberry Balsamic Salsa is the perfect dish for summer gatherings, picnics, or casual dinners.