Tonya’s Tips:
Balsamic Black Pepper Strawberries
Welcome to our Local Recipes series from Kelly’s Market & Deli, featuring fresh ingredients and market-inspired meals from Downtown Decatur.
Sweet strawberries, rich balsamic glaze, and freshly cracked black pepper come together in this simple seasonal recipe that feels both elegant and effortless.
Whether spooned over ice cream, layered onto pound cake, or added to a summer cheese board, these balsamic strawberries are an easy way to elevate fresh fruit and feel fancy while doing it! Bonus: everything you need is right here at Kelly's Market!
We're proud to source our strawberries through Capital Produce, a locally owned company that has been serving Atlanta's independent restaurants and neighborhood markets for more than 26 years.
Known for sourcing daily from local farmers’ markets and finding the best seasonal produce available, Capital Produce shares our commitment to fresh, thoughtfully sourced ingredients. From specialty herbs to peak-season fruit, they help bring quality to tables all across Atlanta.
Supporting local growers and suppliers is something we care deeply about. Simple ingredient recipes like this one start with the greatest ingredients.
Why We Think You’ll Love This Balsamic Black Pepper Strawberries Recipe
Easy seasonal strawberry recipe
Sweet and savory flavor combination that works in both desserts and savory dishes
Perfect for entertaining
Makes your guests say “OMG, what is in this??”
Ready in under 30 minutes
Wine Pairing: What to Drink with Balsamic Black Pepper Strawberries
Strawberries pair beautifully with sparkling wine, rosé, or a lightly chilled Pinot Noir. Grab a perfect bottle for an easy summer dessert or entertaining spread.
Not sure what to grab? Here are three we love with this recipe.
NV Almacita Rosé of Pinot Noir ($17.99) is a sparkling rosé that just works. The bubbles cut through the balsamic glaze, and the berry notes play right into the strawberries.
Domaine St. Laurent Rosé ($21.99) is a still rosé that feels a little more refined, perfect if you're building a cheese board or hosting. The freshness and acidity will balance the black pepper.
Gerard Bertrand Crémant de Limoux Rosé ($21.99) is a French sparkling rosé that always impresses and feels a little special without the price tag.
Balsamic Black Pepper Strawberries
Serves 4
Ingredients
1 quart fresh strawberries, rinsed, hulled, and sliced
1½ tablespoons balsamic glaze
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1–3 tablespoons sugar, to taste
Instructions
Add sliced strawberries, balsamic glaze, and black pepper to a bowl.
Toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with sugar to taste and toss again to incorporate.
Allow the mixture to macerate for 15–25 minutes before serving.
Tonya’s Note:
Balsamic glaze has already been reduced, giving it a naturally sweeter flavor. Strawberries vary in sweetness depending on the season, so always taste before adding sugar.
Serving Ideas
These strawberries are incredibly versatile. Try them:
Spooned over vanilla ice cream
Served alongside lemon pound cake or shortcake
Added to salads with arugula or spinach
Paired with goat cheese, blue cheese, or Brie
Layered onto baked Brie or a summer cheese board
