Serves 6

This Italian dessert is elegant but very simple. Serve the berries and vinegar as is or with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you don't have light brown sugar on hand, sprinkle the berries with an equal amount of granulated sugar.

1. Bring vinegar, granulated sugar, and lemon juice to simmer in small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until syrup is reduced by half (to approximately 3 tablespoons), about 3 minutes. Transfer vinegar syrup to small bowl and cool completely.

2. With spoon, lightly toss berries and brown sugar in large bowl. Let stand until sugar dissolves and berries exude some juice, 10 to 15 minutes. Pour vinegar syrup over berries, add pepper to taste, and toss to combine. Divide berries among individual bowls or goblets and serve immediately.