Dessert

Pickled Strawberries with Goat Cheese and Honey Drizzle Recipe

ByHarry Bern November 15, 2025November 15, 2025

Introduction

Pickled strawberries offer a delightful twist on fresh berries, combining tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. This simple recipe transforms strawberries into a versatile topping perfect for toast with goat cheese, adding a burst of brightness to any snack or appetizer.

A slice of toasted bread with a rough brown crust forms the base layer on a white plate. The second layer is a spread of soft white cheese, unevenly applied, covering most of the bread's surface. On top of this, five large, bright red strawberry halves are neatly placed in the center. Small dark round seeds and fresh green herb leaves are sprinkled on and around the strawberries. Light golden honey drizzles over the top, adding a shiny, sticky texture, with some honey pooling slightly on the plate. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with parts of a second similar toast and a small jar with sliced strawberries visible around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups halved strawberries (enough to fill a jar)
1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon peppercorns
Water to fill the rest of the jar
6-7 slices sourdough
One or two 4-ounce packages goat cheese
Some thyme leaves
Honey drizzle
Pinch of salt (for seasoning)

Instructions

Step 1: Place the halved strawberries into a jar. Add the white balsamic vinegar, sugar, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt.
Step 2: Fill the jar to the top with water, then secure the lid and shake gently to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Refrigerate the jar for at least 2 hours, ideally within 12-24 hours to keep the strawberries from becoming too mushy. You can leave them up to 2 days if needed.
Step 4: When ready to serve, fry or grill the sourdough slices in olive oil until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Spread goat cheese on the toasted sourdough, then top with a few pickled strawberries. Gently smash the strawberries with a fork.
Step 6: Sprinkle thyme leaves over the top, drizzle with honey, and finish with a pinch of salt for a perfect balance of flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use different types of vinegar like apple cider or sherry for varied flavor profiles.
Try adding a few sprigs of fresh herbs such as rosemary or basil directly into the jar for extra aroma.
Serve the pickled strawberries over salads, cheese boards, or roasted meats for a bright, unexpected pop.

Storage

Store the pickled strawberries in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. They maintain their best texture and flavor within 1 to 2 days. Leftovers can be reused on toast or as a topping, but avoid keeping beyond 3 days for freshness. No reheating required; serve chilled or at room temperature.