Balsamic Basil Sugar + Strawberry = Summertime Bliss

Balsamic Basil Sugar is one of those blends that I made with a very specific ingredient in mind: strawberries!

Strawberry season is about to be in full swing here in Ohio! That means picnics, family gatherings, graduation parties, and vacations are also on the horizon. But are you tired of the eating same old summertime food at all of these functions? You can easily reinvent some of your classic strawberry recipes (and elevate your palate) by simply adding some Balsamic Basil Sugar!

Years ago I catered a Mother's Day event at a local greenhouse and decided to make balsamic basil strawberry shortcake. The guests were definitely intrigued by the pairing, and were delighted by the taste. When I started formulating recipes for Peace Blends, I just knew that I needed to pay homage to that dish with it's own special blend.

The sweetness of the berries, tartness of the balsamic and fresh herbaceous basil come together to create a complex flavor combination that makes you slow down and enjoy the experience. It is like eating a little story with a plot twist :)

How to use Balsamic Basil Sugar in your classic strawberry recipes:

• Macerate (giggle) strawberries in Balsamic Basil Sugar for your strawberry shortcake. Drizzle in balsamic glaze if you are feeling extra daring!

• Sprinkle Balsamic Basil Sugar directly into your strawberry pretzel salad mix

• Add the Balsamic Basil Sugar to your strawberry jam mix (this is one of my favorites!)

• Dust the top of your strawberry rhubarb pie with the sugar blend

• Rim a cocktail glass with the sugar for your strawberry margs

• Mix the blend into your strawberry lemonade

• Candy pecans with the sugar blend to add to an arugula and strawberry salad

• Emulsify the blend with strawberries, apple cider vinegar and oil for a salad dressing

• Whip the blend with strawberries and butter for a quick breakfast toast spread

You can substitute this versatile blend in any recipe that you would use plain boring white sugar in. The possibilities are really limitless! Just because this blend was created with strawberries in mind, does not mean you can not use it in other dishes. Give it a try on tomatoes, peaches, berries, hot peppers, or even fish!

Be bold. Try something new!