Step 1: Begin by gently rinsing your fresh strawberries under cool water. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Hull the strawberries by removing the green leafy caps and the white core. Set aside about half a cup of the most beautiful, firm strawberries, sliced or diced, for layering and garnishing later.
Step 2: Take the remaining hulled fresh strawberries (about 2 cups worth) and place them in a food processor or blender. Add the granulated sugar (or powdered sugar for a smoother result) and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Pulse until you have a smooth, vibrant puree. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
Step 3: In a very cold large mixing bowl, pour the very cold heavy cream. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or you’ll end up with butter!
Step 4: Gently fold about one-third of the strawberry puree into the whipped cream. Use a spatula and a gentle lifting motion to incorporate it without deflating the whipped cream. Once combined, fold in the remaining strawberry puree in two additions until just blended.
Step 5: Now for the fun part: assembly! You'll need four to six individual serving glasses or small Mason jars. Start by placing a layer of crumbled shortbread cookies at the bottom of each glass.
Step 6: Spoon a generous layer of the fresh strawberry mousse over the cookie crumbs.
Step 7: Add a layer of your reserved sliced fresh strawberries.
Step 8: Repeat the layers: more cookie crumbs, followed by more strawberry mousse, and finally, another layer of sliced fresh strawberries. Fill your glasses to the top, leaving a little space for a final garnish.
Step 9: Place the assembled parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours to allow them to chill thoroughly and for the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 10: Just before serving, garnish each parfait with a fresh whole strawberry, a sprig of fresh mint, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve immediately and enjoy the pure taste of summer contained within these incredible fresh strawberry recipes.