Problem: The containers of strawberries on sale for $1.99 seemed like a steal. But they don’t taste remotely like the real deal.

Solution: Grandma would probably advise you to slice the strawberries, sprinkle them with sugar, and set them aside for a half hour until juices form. And she’d be right. But to impart flavor, not just sweetness, add a touch of vanilla extract, a few drops of lemon juice, or a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom with the sugar. For a bolder, boozier dessert, chef and author Rozanne Gold says, add a splash of cassis or red wine just before serving. (She prefers a light, fruity wine, such as Beaujolais.) You can also scatter some thinly sliced fresh basil or mint over the top.

Next Time: Peer through the plastic before buying. Any trace of white near the stems means the berries were picked too early. Those that appear soft or shriveled or are leaking juices are overripe. If you’re still not sure, pop open the container and squeeze gently; the berries should yield.