Vibrant Strawberry Balsamic Salsa (Gourmet Summer Appetizer)

This Strawberry Balsamic Salsa is a fresh, elegant twist on traditional salsa, made with juicy summer strawberries, fresh basil, red onion, and jalapeño, all tied together with aged balsamic vinegar. Sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy, it’s perfect as a dip, crostini topping, or savory relish for grilled proteins.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 0

Total Time 25

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired

Calories: 80

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and finely diced
2 tbsp red onion, very finely minced
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
8 leaves fresh basil, chiffonade
2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp honey or agave nectar
0.25 tsp fine sea salt
0.125 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

Cutting Board
Chef’s Knife
Mixing bowl
small whisk bowl

Method

Wash and thoroughly dry the strawberries. Hull and dice them into small, uniform cubes. Transfer to a glass mixing bowl.
Add the finely minced red onion and jalapeño to the strawberries. Stir gently to combine.
Stack and roll the basil leaves, then slice into thin ribbons. Gently fold the basil into the bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper until combined.
Pour the dressing over the strawberry mixture and gently fold until evenly coated.
Cover and let the salsa rest at room temperature for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Use firm, ripe strawberries and a good-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor. This salsa is best served fresh after a short resting period.

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