Name: Fresh Strawberries with Balsamic Vinegar and Basil
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups sugar; 1 1/4 cups balsamic vinegar; 2 1/2 tablespoons honey; 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into small pieces and loosely packed; 10 cups strawberries, trimmed and halved (4 pounds whole berries)

Chef Michael Schlow of Boston's Via Matta created this dish for Epicurious's Wine.Dine.Donate program. The sweet and tangy strawberries are delicious on their own, but for a more decadent dessert, serve with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups sugar

1 1/4 cups balsamic vinegar

2 1/2 tablespoons honey

2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into small pieces and loosely packed

10 cups strawberries, trimmed and halved (4 pounds whole berries)

Preparation

In large mixing bowl, stir together sugar, vinegar, honey, and pepper. Add basil and strawberries; toss to coat. Cover and chill at least 10 minutes and up to 1 1/2 hours. Serve chilled.