This Strawberries BBQ Aurora IL recipe is a sweet-and-smoky grilled strawberry dish inspired by the barbecue-loving spirit of Aurora, Illinois. It takes fresh strawberries, coats them in a lightly spiced honey-balsamic glaze, and grills them just long enough to caramelize their sugars while keeping their juicy interior. The result is a versatile side or dessert that pairs surprisingly well with grilled meats, salads, or even over ice cream.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved (or quartered if large)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) honey
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add the strawberry halves to the bowl and toss gently until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
- Thread the strawberries onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes first) or place them directly on the grill grates, cut side down.
- Grill the strawberries for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they have nice grill marks and are slightly softened but still hold their shape. Do not overcook; they should not become mushy.
- Remove from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining glaze from the bowl (if you like, warm it briefly in a small saucepan) and garnish with fresh mint, if desired.
- Serve immediately, warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Choose firm berries: Overripe strawberries will fall apart on the grill. Look for berries that are firm, glossy, and deep red.
- Use a grill basket: If your strawberries are small or you’re worried about them slipping through the grates, use a grill basket or a piece of aluminum foil with holes poked in it.
- Adjust the sweetness: If your balsamic vinegar is very tart, add an extra teaspoon of honey. If you prefer a more savory flavor, reduce the honey to 2 teaspoons.
- Don’t skip the oil: The olive oil helps prevent sticking and also helps the glaze caramelize without burning.
Serving Suggestions
These grilled strawberries are fantastic as a side dish to grilled pork chops, chicken, or even steak. They also make a delicious topping for vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or pound cake. For a savory twist, chop them and toss with arugula, goat cheese, and toasted pecans for a summer salad.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño to the glaze for a sweet-heat combo.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in a teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves or chopped basil to the glaze before grilling.
- Balsamic Reduction: Instead of the glaze, brush the strawberries with olive oil and grill them plain, then drizzle with a store-bought or homemade balsamic reduction after grilling.
- Grilled Strawberry Salsa: Chop the grilled strawberries and mix with diced red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Serve with tortilla chips or grilled fish.
Storage and Reheating
These strawberries are best enjoyed fresh off the grill. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, or microwave in 15-second intervals until just warmed through. They will soften more upon reheating, so use them as a topping or in a salad rather than as a standalone side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries? Frozen strawberries are not recommended for grilling because they become too soft and watery when thawed. Stick with fresh, firm berries for the best texture.
What if I don’t have a grill? You can use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat, or even a cast-iron skillet. Just be sure to heat it well before adding the strawberries so they get nice grill marks.
How do I keep the strawberries from sticking to the grill? Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before you start. You can also brush the strawberries with a little extra oil just before placing them on the grill.
Can I make this ahead of time? These are best made right before serving. If you need to prep ahead, you can mix the glaze and hull the strawberries up to a day in advance, but grill them just before you’re ready to eat.
Is it safe to grill strawberries? Yes, absolutely. Grilling fruit is a common technique that caramelizes sugars and adds a smoky depth of flavor. Just keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn.
What can I do with the leftover glaze? The leftover glaze is delicious drizzled over grilled chicken, pork, or even roasted vegetables. You can also simmer it in a small pot to thicken it and use it as a sauce.
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Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
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