Black Pepper

• For a mild bit of spice, sprinkle 1 tbsp. of freshly ground black pepper over sliced strawberries sweetened with 3 tbsp. of sugar. Toss with 2 tbsp. of balsamic vinegar and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes. You can also add a tablespoon or two of black pepper to the filling when making a strawberry pie or tart.

Curry Powder

• Curry, combined with other ingredients, is a striking, flavorful addition to strawberries. Place cut strawberries in a bowl and stir in 1 cup of coconut cream. Add 2 tbsp. of honey or maple syrup, then sprinkle with 1 tbsp. of curry powder. The curry can be mild or very spicy.

Cinnamon

• Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon into strawberry smoothies or in strawberry lemonade for a slightly sweet spiced taste. You can also add cinnamon to melted chocolate for cinnamon chocolate-covered strawberries. Cinnamon and sugar also go well with strawberries that have been sauteed in a pan. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream. Add a tablespoon or two of cinnamon to baked strawberry desserts such as tarts or muffins.

Dried Herbs

• Dried herbs such as basil and mint are often paired with strawberries, particularly in salad or in strawberry dressing or sauce. To make a simple strawberry basil salad, combine 1/4 cup fresh basil with 2 cups of sliced strawberries and 8 cups of lettuce. Top with a balsamic and olive oil dressing. Top meats with a strawberry, honey and mint sauce by combining 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup mint leaves, 2 tbsp. lemon juice and 2 cups of chopped strawberries in a blender. Try sprinkling other dried herbs such as rosemary and oregano over sauteed strawberries as well.