Sweet Balsamic Strawberries with Whipped Ricotta Cream and Maple Glazed Seeds
Try this Sweet Balsamic Strawberries with Whipped Ricotta Cream and Maple Glazed Seeds recipe
Try this Sweet Balsamic Strawberries with Whipped Ricotta Cream and Maple Glazed Seeds recipe
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cups part skim or whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (or honey but i really like the maple flavor)
- 2 cups strawberries halved
- 1 1/2 cups mixed whole nuts (i used equal amounts pistachios almonds, cashews + pecans)
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flax seeds
- Carbohydrate 25.9176950018276 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.299889999982248 g
- Fiber 1.66 g
- Protein 0.635900000223928 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0215849999968046 g
- Serving Size 1 1 BOWLS OR JARS (127g)
- Sodium 6.97550000971206 mg
- Sugar 24.2576950018276 g
- Trans Fat 0.073344 g
- Calories 114 calories
Step-by-step
- To make the ricotta cream: Place the ricotta cheese, pure maple syrup (make sure there is no added sugar in your syrup) and vanilla in a food processor or blender. Puree until completely smooth and whipped, about 1 minute. Scoop the ricotta cream into a bowl and refrigerate until cold, at least 15 minutes or until ready to eat.
- Meanwhile make the balsamic strawberries: Place the strawberries, balsamic vinegar and maple syrup in a small pot. Bring to a boil and cook for 3 minutes or until the strawberries are just beginning to soften. Using a slotted spoon remove only the strawberries and place them in a bowl. Bring the remaining sauce to a boil, boil for another 3-5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened into a thin syrup. You do not want it to thicken too much so watch it closely. Pour the sauce over the strawberries. Allow the berries to cool a little before serving.
- To make the maple glazed seeded nuts, add the nuts and seeds to a skillet set over medium heat. Toast the nuts until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Once the nuts are toasted remove from the heat and stir in the maple syrup, vanilla and a pinch of sea salt. Spoon the mixture out onto a baking sheet lined with parchment. Allow to cool and then store in an airtight container.
- To assemble, spoon the strawberries into the bottom of four small bowls or jars. Next add the ricotta cream and then add the nuts on top. Lastly, drizzle with more balsamic syrup. Grab a spoon!
Sweet Balsamic Strawberries with Whipped Ricotta Cream and Maple Glazed Seeds: A Delightful Dessert
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook elaborate desserts is often a challenge. However, I crave those moments of sweet indulgence, and this recipe for Sweet Balsamic Strawberries with Whipped Ricotta Cream and Maple Glazed Seeds has become my go-to for a quick, elegant, and incredibly satisfying treat. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, creamy and crunchy – everything I need to end my day on a high note. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust it to suit your preferences. Love pistachios? Add more! Prefer almonds? Go for it! The same goes for the seeds; sunflower, pumpkin, or even a mix – feel free to experiment and create your own unique flavour profile. I often find myself adapting this recipe based on what's fresh and available at the farmer's market. One week might feature a vibrant mix of berries, the next could be a symphony of different nuts. This adaptability is what makes it so perfect for a busy lifestyle - it's always exciting, always delicious, and never boring.
The process itself is straightforward and relaxing. The gentle simmering of strawberries with balsamic vinegar creates a magical transformation, resulting in a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the creamy ricotta. The whipped ricotta is unbelievably light and airy, a delightful contrast to the slightly firm strawberries. And let's not forget the crunchy maple-glazed seeds and nuts - the perfect textural addition to this already delicious dessert. It’s a sensory experience that’s both satisfying and restorative after a long day.
What makes this dessert even more appealing is its adaptability to different occasions. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party, yet simple enough for a weeknight treat. I’ve served it to friends at gatherings, and it's always a hit. The presentation is beautiful, too. The vibrant red strawberries, the creamy white ricotta, and the golden-brown nuts create a stunning visual that's as appealing as the taste itself. The contrast of textures and the interplay of flavors make this dessert a true masterpiece.
Beyond the taste and ease of preparation, this recipe holds a special place in my heart. It's a reminder to take a moment for myself, to savor the little things, and to find joy in simple pleasures. It’s a sweet escape, a moment of calm amidst the chaos, a delicious reward for a day well-spent. More than just a dessert, it's a ritual, a way to reconnect with myself and end the day feeling refreshed and satisfied. So, treat yourself – you deserve it! Make this dessert, and experience the magic for yourself.
This dessert also makes a fantastic gift. Imagine presenting a small jar of this delightful creation to a friend or family member – what a thoughtful and delicious gesture! It’s a personalized treat that shows you care, and it’s a gift that's both beautiful and enjoyable. This simple yet elegant dessert can easily elevate any occasion, from a casual gathering to a special celebration. Its versatility makes it a perfect choice for any time of year, offering a unique and satisfying experience.
Ultimately, this recipe is about more than just the ingredients; it's about the memories made while preparing it, and the joy shared when it's finally enjoyed. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. It’s a testament to the power of food to bring people together, and to provide a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and deliciousness of this Sweet Balsamic Strawberries with Whipped Ricotta Cream and Maple Glazed Seeds dessert. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite for many reasons.
