1 pound fresh strawberries, diced
Optional: 1 to 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
2 ounces crumbled goat cheese (about ½ cup)
¼ cup chopped fresh basil, plus a few small basil leaves for garnish
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon thick balsamic vinegar*
½ teaspoon Maldon flaky sea salt or a scant ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Spread the diced strawberries across a medium serving platter or shallow serving bowl. If the strawberries aren’t sweet enough to your liking, toss them with a bit of honey or maple syrup.
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the strawberries, followed by the chopped basil. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar on top.
Finish off the salad with the salt, a few twists of freshly ground black pepper, and the reserved basil leaves. For the most beautiful presentation, serve the salad promptly. Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator, though, for about 3 days.