Sweet Strawberries Recipe

This vibrant Sweet Strawberries recipe is made with fresh strawberries, a touch of sugar, and a hint of fresh lemon juice. The result is a simple, elegant fruit dessert that tastes like pure summer in a bowl. It’s a quick and easy treat perfect for an afternoon snack, a light dessert, or a fun addition to breakfast, making enough for 4 people.

Sweet Strawberries Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

How To Make Sweet Strawberries

1. Prepare the strawberries: Thoroughly rinse the strawberries under cool water. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Remove the green hulls and slice the strawberries into thin, even pieces.
2. Macerate the fruit: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Gently toss everything together with a spoon until the sugar and lemon juice are evenly distributed.
3. Let the flavors meld: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. As the strawberries sit, the sugar will draw out the natural juices, creating a sweet, syrupy liquid that enhances the flavor. This process is called maceration.
4. Serve: Give the strawberries a final gentle stir before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite toppings.

Recipe Tips

• Use ripe strawberries: For the best flavor, choose strawberries that are bright red and have a sweet aroma. Under-ripe strawberries will not release as much juice and will have a less intense flavor.
• Don’t over-mix: After adding the sugar and lemon juice, toss the strawberries gently. Over-mixing can bruise the fruit and make them mushy.
• Customize the sweetness: The amount of sugar can be adjusted to your preference and the natural sweetness of the strawberries. If your berries are very ripe, you may need less sugar.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare these macerated strawberries up to a few hours in advance, but it’s best to enjoy them within a day, as they can lose their fresh texture over time.

What To Serve Sweet Strawberries

These sweet strawberries are delicious on their own, but they also make a perfect topping for a variety of dishes. Serve them over a slice of angel food cake or a shortcake for a classic dessert. They are also wonderful over a bowl of vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, or a stack of pancakes or waffles for breakfast.

How To Store Sweet Strawberries Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover sweet strawberries in a sealed airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The texture will soften over time, so they are best eaten on the same day they are made.
• Freeze: Freezing is not recommended as the strawberries will become very soft and watery upon thawing.

Sweet Strawberries Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 75 kcal
• Total Fat: 0.3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 2mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is “macerating” strawberries? Macerating is a simple culinary technique where you soak fresh fruit in a liquid, often sugar and a little acid like lemon juice. The sugar draws out the fruit’s natural juices, creating a delicious syrup that intensifies the flavor.
• Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, you can use other types of sugar. Brown sugar will add a slightly richer, caramel flavor, while powdered sugar will dissolve more quickly for a smoother syrup. You can also use a sugar substitute or honey.
• Can I add other ingredients? Of course! This recipe is a great base for customization. Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist, a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing note, or a pinch of black pepper to enhance the strawberry flavor.

Try More Recipes:

• Tarte Tatin Recipe
• The Best Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
• Three-Ingredient Brownies Recipe