Strawberries & Blackberries with Limoncello

Strawberries & Blackberries with Limoncello

I adapted this recipe from one of my favorite Food Network buddies, Ina Garten.  Oh yes, I consider her a friend, she's on my TV, therefore in my house more than most people or even my husband for that matter.  Yeah, we go way back.

I have made several versions of her original recipe many times and it always has rave reviews!  Don't think for a second that it's a girly kind of dish, the men all love it too.  I can't decide if it's the macerated fruit in the Limoncello or the amazing sauce with the lemon curd in it, you will have to decide for yourself.  It looks so wonderful if you can serve it in a clear dessert dish of some kind.  Come to think of it, the last time I made it and served it in wine glasses.  This time I used plain white coffee cups, just as good, but not as pretty, oh well.

Strawberries & Blackberries with Limoncello (adapted from Ina's Fruit Salad with Limoncello)

7 ounces Greek yogurt

1/3 C good bottled lemon curd

1 T honey

1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract

1 tsp grated lemon rind

2 C sliced strawberries

1-1/2 C fresh blackberries

2 T sugar

3 T limoncello liqueur

Fresh mint (optional for garnish)

For the lemon yogurt topping, whisk together the yogurt, lemon curd, honey, vanilla and grated lemon rind and set aside at room temperature.

For the fruit salad, carefully toss together the berries, sugar and limoncello.  Allow them to stand at room temperature for about 5 minutes to let the berries macerate with the sugar and liqueur.

Serve the bowl of berries with a dollop of lemon yogurt on top.  Top each with a sprig of fresh mint.

Note:  I have prepared the berries and the sauce separately the day before and kept in the refrigerator until about an hour before serving.  Turns out great every time!

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English Muffin with Mascarpone Cheese & Fresh Strawberries

You'll remember the English Muffins from March 1st, well they (not the same batch) are still debuting around here with new twists. This was stupid simple but really tasty. I still find some of the most enjoyable treats are the ones showcasing a few great ingredients. Thankfully strawberries are back in our lives this time of year. You know, the perfect ones that don't require a bit of sugar because they are delectably sweet and juicy. Mmmmm sinful! English Muffins with Mascarpone Cheese and Fresh Strawberries

English Muffins, halved and toasted

Mascarpone cheese, allow to come to almost room temperature

Strawberries, sliced thinly

Mosto d'uva bianco Pera (white grape must and pear), alternately, you can use balsamic vinegar or white balsamic vinegar

On toasted English muffins, spread Mascarpone cheese and top with fresh strawberries and drizzle White Grape Must and Pear(or balsamic).

See, too simple! Perfect as a snack or an addition to an elegant brunch. Enjoy!

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