Strawberry season is fleeting, but its sweet rewards are worth every second. If you’re visiting a local farmer’s market or picking your own, nothing captures the taste of summer quite like fresh, ripe strawberries.
This dessert recipe transforms simple ingredients into a versatile treat that will elevate any gathering or dinner.
A Sweet Summer Treat for Every Occasion
Sliced summer strawberries are the epitome of simplicity and flavor. This recipe lets the natural sweetness of the berries shine while adding just the right amount of sugar and a hint of salt to coax out their juices.
It’s perfect for those who value quick and easy recipes that deliver maximum taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing for a backyard barbecue or a quiet evening at home, this dessert is an ideal go-to option.
STOP BUYING GREENS: This Machine Grows $1000s Worth Automatically
✓ Set It & Forget It: Fully Automated Growing
✓ From Seed to Harvest in Days - No Experience Needed
✓ Grow Premium Microgreens Worth $50/lb Year-Round
Note: This is an affiliate link and we may earn a small commission if you purchase at no additional cost. This helps keep our website free to use.
Tips for Selecting & Prepping Strawberries
Choosing the right strawberries is key to the success of this recipe. Look for vibrant, red berries with a firm texture and a sweet fragrance. Avoid any that appear mushy or have white or green patches, as these may not be fully ripened.
Here are some helpful tips for preparing your berries:
- Wash with care: Rinse your strawberries gently under cold water to remove dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a soft cloth or paper towel.
- Trim with precision: Use a paring knife to remove the leafy caps, ensuring no fruit is wasted.
- Slice evenly: Cut smaller strawberries in half and larger ones into uniform ¼-inch slices for consistent juicing.
This preparation ensures the perfect balance of tart and sweet in every bite, a hallmark of great dessert recipes.
Why Rest Time Is Essential
An important step in this recipe is allowing the strawberries to rest after mixing with sugar and salt. This downtime, roughly one hour, allows the fruit to release its natural juices, creating a luscious, syrupy consistency.
The result is a deliciously soft and sweet topping that’s as versatile as it is flavorful.
Versatile Ways to Enjoy Sliced Strawberries
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Classic shortcake: Spoon the strawberries and their juices over fluffy biscuits and top with whipped cream.
- Ice cream topping: Warm them slightly on the stovetop for a decadent sauce to drizzle over vanilla ice cream.
- Cheesecake pairing: Add them as a fresh, fruity complement to creamy cheesecake for an irresistible dessert.
- Breakfast boost: Use them to top pancakes, waffles, or yogurt for a morning treat.
With endless options, these strawberries become more than just a dessert—they’re a staple for countless recipes.
Storing & Serving Tips
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! These strawberries keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They’ll soften over time, making them even more delightful when used as a warm topping.
For a quick fix, reheat gently on the stovetop, and they’ll be ready to enhance any dessert or snack.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Collection
This sliced summer strawberries recipe is a reminder that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable. Its combination of ease, flavor, and versatility makes it a must-have for anyone who loves desserts that bring out the best of seasonal ingredients.
Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Sliced Summer Strawberries Dessert Recipe
Equipment
- Paring knife
- Medium mixing bowl
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 6 heaping cups whole, ripe strawberries
- ½ to ¾ cup sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt use half if using iodized salt
Instructions
- Wash and drain the strawberries thoroughly.
- Using a paring knife, trim off the leafy caps of the strawberries.
- Halve the smaller strawberries and slice the larger ones into ¼-inch thick pieces.
- Place the sliced strawberries in a medium bowl. Sprinkle with sugar and salt, then toss gently to combine.
- Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour, until the strawberries release their juices.
- Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Notes
- The strawberries can be used as a topping for ice cream, cheesecake, or other desserts.
- For an enhanced flavor, gently warm the strawberries on the stovetop before serving as a topping.
- Adjust the sugar quantity based on the sweetness of the strawberries and your preference.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.