By Jennifer Alexander Ruple

Strawberry season is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to plan a trip to your favorite roadside farm stand or farmers market, for one of northwest Ohio’s sweetest signs of early summer. Whether you prefer to grab a basket of freshly picked berries or spend a morning filling containers from the field, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the short but delicious harvest. Start with Creque’s Greenhouse, 9700 Sylvania Ave., for homegrown strawberries in quarts and you-pick options.

While strawberries are often celebrated in shortcakes, pies and jams, they also shine on the savory side of the table. One standout seasonal dish is Strawberry Caprese Salad, a bright twist on the classic summer favorite. The salad combines ripe, juicy strawberries with fresh cherry-size mozzarella cheese balls and fragrant basil, then it’s finished with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze. The result is a colorful mix of sweet, creamy and tangy flavors that is both refreshing and indulgent. It’s an excellent seasonal dish for backyard dinners and pairs especially well with grilled chicken or fish.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the Holland Strawberry Festival at Homecoming Park from June 17 to 21. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the season with food and fun, but the real star is, of course, the strawberries.

Strawberry Caprese Salad
1 quart strawberries, hulled and sliced
8 ounce container Ciliegine, fresh cherry size mozzarella balls, halved
Fresh basil, thinly sliced
2-3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

In a large bowl, combine strawberries and mozzarella. Add fresh basil and stir gently.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze. Finish with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with whole basil leaves.