Mascerated Strawberries

The balsamic vinegar brings out the berries' beautiful color and truly enhances their flavor. Great served with a simple pound cake, over vanilla ice cream, or simply by themselves.

4 pints (8 cups) fresh strawberries, sliced thick

5 tablespoons Strawberry Balsamic Vinegar, Tahitian Vanilla Balsamic or Traditional 18-Year Balsamic

2 tablespoon sugar (optional)

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 pints vanilla ice cream, for serving

Thirty minutes to an hour before serving, combine the strawberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and pepper in a bowl. Set aside at room temperature.

Place a serving of the strawberries in a bowl with a scoop of ice cream on top. Garnish with fresh mint or basil.