Fresh Strawberry Relish

Fresh Strawberry Relish Recipe with Balsamic Vinegar and Walnuts

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fresh Strawberry Relish is a delightful and versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. This sweet and tangy relish is made with fresh California strawberries, balsamic vinegar, orange juice, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. It is perfect for serving with grilled or baked fish, chicken, or even as a topping for salads or sandwiches.

History

The origins of Fresh Strawberry Relish can be traced back to the early days of California agriculture, where strawberries have been grown since the late 19th century. This recipe is a modern twist on traditional relishes, combining the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar and the warmth of orange juice. It has become a popular choice for those looking to add a fresh and flavorful touch to their meals.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp of orange juice
1 tbsp of dijon-style mustard
1 tbsp of honey
0.5 tsp of grated orange peel
0.5 tsp of red pepper flakes
1 pt (473 ml) basket of California strawberries, stemmed and sliced
3 tbsp of raisins
3 tbsp of chopped walnuts

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, measure all the ingredients except strawberries, raisins, and walnuts.
Whisk the ingredients together until thoroughly blended. Then, add the remaining ingredients and toss them.
Serve the mixture with baked or grilled fish or chicken.

Variations

Add diced apples or pears for extra sweetness and crunch.
Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts.
Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a vegan version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor in this relish.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.

- This relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other fruits or nuts, such as diced apples or pecans.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Fresh Strawberry Relish with grilled or baked fish, chicken, or pork. It also makes a delicious topping for salads or sandwiches.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires no cooking, simply mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and serve.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as a substitute. You can also use lemon juice instead of orange juice.

Make Ahead Tips

Fresh Strawberry Relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Fresh Strawberry Relish in a small bowl or ramekin, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint or basil for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Fresh Strawberry Relish pairs well with grilled or baked fish, chicken, pork, or even tofu. It also complements salads, sandwiches, and cheese platters.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Fresh Strawberry Relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best served chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fresh Strawberry Relish contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fresh Strawberry Relish contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Fresh Strawberry Relish contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Fresh Strawberry Relish contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fresh Strawberry Relish is a good source of Vitamin C, providing about 60% of the recommended daily intake per serving. It also contains small amounts of Vitamin A and Iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (walnuts) and honey, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Fresh Strawberry Relish is a nutritious and flavorful condiment that is low in calories and high in Vitamin C. It is a great addition to a balanced diet.

Summary

Fresh Strawberry Relish is a simple and delicious condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Made with fresh California strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and a hint of spice, this relish is perfect for serving with grilled or baked fish, chicken, or as a topping for salads or sandwiches. With its nutritious profile and versatile nature, Fresh Strawberry Relish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy farmhouse. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of fresh strawberries wafting through the air.

Margaret had a twinkle in her eye as she excitedly told me about the fresh strawberry relish she had just made. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. I could see the pride in Margaret's eyes as she talked about the tradition of making this special relish every summer.

I watched intently as Margaret prepared the relish, carefully slicing the strawberries and mixing them with sugar, lemon juice, and a hint of mint. The vibrant red color of the strawberries against the green of the mint was a sight to behold. As Margaret stirred the mixture, the scent of ripe strawberries filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the relish was finally ready, Margaret served it with a simple grilled chicken dish. The burst of sweetness and tanginess from the relish paired perfectly with the savory chicken, creating a symphony of flavors in my mouth. I was hooked from the first bite.

After that day, I couldn't get the taste of Margaret's fresh strawberry relish out of my mind. I begged her to share the recipe with me, and she graciously agreed. She handed me a worn piece of paper, filled with her handwritten notes and tips on how to make the perfect relish.

I rushed home that day, eager to recreate the magic of Margaret's fresh strawberry relish in my own kitchen. I gathered all the ingredients and followed the recipe to a tee, just as Margaret had shown me. As the strawberries simmered on the stove, releasing their sweet juices, I felt a sense of nostalgia wash over me.

The aroma of the relish as it cooked brought back memories of summers spent in my grandmother's kitchen, watching her whip up delicious meals with love and care. I remembered the laughter and chatter that filled the air as we gathered around the table to enjoy her creations.

When the relish was finally done, I took a tentative taste, unsure if it would live up to Margaret's version. But as soon as the sweetness of the strawberries hit my tongue, I knew I had succeeded. The relish was perfect – a balance of sweetness, tartness, and freshness that made my taste buds sing.

From that day on, fresh strawberry relish became a staple in my kitchen. I made it every summer, using the ripest strawberries I could find and savoring every bite. Each time I took a spoonful of the relish, I was transported back to that warm summer day at Margaret's farmhouse, where I first fell in love with this delicious recipe.

As the years passed, I shared the recipe with my own friends and family, passing down the tradition just as Margaret had done with me. I watched with joy as they too became enamored with the sweet and tangy flavors of the fresh strawberry relish, creating their own memories around the dinner table.

Now, as I prepare to pass on this recipe to my grandchildren, I feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the connections it has brought me over the years. The simple act of making fresh strawberry relish has not only filled my belly with delicious food but also filled my heart with cherished memories of loved ones and good times shared.

And so, as I stir a pot of simmering strawberries on the stove, I can't help but smile at the thought of the joy and delight this recipe will bring to future generations. The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me – and I hope it will do the same for those who come after me.