Strawberries with Vanilla Syrup

1 lb strawberries (cut in half for large ones)
1 cup water
1 cup Splenda
1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
3 strips lemon zest (or 2 Tbsp lemon juice)
1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns, lightly crushed

Place strawberries in a heatproof bowl.  Combine water, Splenda, vanilla, lemon and peppercorns in a small saucepan over medium heat.  Bring to a simmer, and cook for 1 minute.  Pour syrup over strawberries.  Let stand until cool, about 15 minutes.

From Martha Stewart