GREAT 4TH OF JULY HOSTESS GIFT----PICKLED STRAWBERRIES!

The 4th of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 when we declared our independence. We celebrate with parades and picnics. It's a wonderful time to come together to celebrate and be thankful for the freedoms we have in our country today. It's also the first picnic of the year for many of us!

The day is abuzz with BBQ grills everywhere! Delicious food, great family and friends, what could be better? But wait......let's not forget that Host or Hostess that's at the helm of this event making sure everything goes off seamlessly.The thought behind a Host or Hostess gift is one of appreciation and thanks. 

Today I am sharing an easy gift you can make yourself! Kind of a DIY.......

Have you ever heard of Pickled Strawberries? It seems like we pickle anything anymore. Of course we have the usual dill pickles and even watermelon pickles. When I came across this recipe, I thought why not give them a try and then the light bulb came on....this would make a great accompaniment to cheese and crackers for a Hostess gift basket.

The combination of vinegars gives the strawberries a nice taste that would be great on a salad or served with chicken or pork also. It's a bit more savory than the traditional strawberry.

Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 qt. fresh strawberries
• 4 peppercorns
• 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp. Kosher salt

Instructions

 1. Wash the berries well and then hull them. Load them into a 500 ml mason jar with peppercorns. (See photos)

 2.  Combine vinegars with sugar and salt in a small pot. Bring to a boil and stir until solids have dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 min.

3.  Pour liquid over berries into jar. Let cool to room temperature then screw on lid. Keep refrigerated up to 2 weeks.

*****The recipe is easy and takes just a few minutes from start to finish. (http://www.chatelaine.com/recipes/chatelainekitchen/what-to-pickle-next-strawberries/)

Making a festive basket like this takes very little time, but what a thoughtful gift to give.

On a personal note.....I'd like to wish my MOM a very special HAPPY BIRTHDAY  today!!!xxx

Wishing you all a safe and delicious 4th of July weekend!

Kathleen

***See you on Monday for Colorful Blooms & Grecian Urns!