Description
This delightful recipe for Pickled Strawberries offers a unique twist on fresh strawberries by marinating them in a tangy white balsamic vinegar brine with peppercorns and a touch of sugar. Perfectly paired with crispy fried sourdough toast and creamy goat cheese, topped with fresh thyme and a honey drizzle, this recipe combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors for a gourmet appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Pickled Strawberries
- 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
For Serving
- 6–7 slices sourdough bread
- One or two 4-ounce packages goat cheese
- Some thyme leaves
- Honey drizzle
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pickled Strawberries: Place the halved strawberries into a clean jar. Add the white balsamic vinegar, sugar, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt. Fill the jar to the top with water. Secure the lid tightly and shake gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Refrigerate to Pickle: Place the filled jar in the refrigerator and allow the strawberries to pickle for at least 2 hours. They can be stored for up to 2 days, but it’s best to enjoy them within 12-24 hours to keep the strawberries firm and less mushy.
- Prepare the Bread: Fry or grill the sourdough slices. For frying, heat olive oil in a griddle or pan over medium heat and cook a few slices at a time until they are golden and crispy on both sides.
- Assemble the Toasts: Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each slice of toasted bread. Top with several pickled strawberries, gently smashing them with a fork to release some juices while keeping texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the toast, drizzle with honey, and finish with a pinch of salt to enhance all the flavors. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, tangy, and savory combination.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- White balsamic vinegar is preferred for its mild sweetness and less acidic taste compared to regular balsamic vinegar.
- The pickled strawberries can be made ahead but consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Frying the bread in olive oil adds a rich flavor and perfect crispiness; alternatively, grilling works well too.
- Adjust the honey drizzle to taste based on your preferred level of sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pickled strawberries, strawberry appetizer, goat cheese toast, sourdough toast recipe, sweet and tangy snack, easy appetizer, balsamic vinegar strawberries
