Are you craving a taste of summer? Look no further! This recipe showcases the delightful combination of juicy strawberries and sweet blueberries in a simple yet incredibly delicious dessert. Perfect for a quick weeknight treat, a casual gathering, or even a sophisticated dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. This is one of those easy recipes that delivers big on flavor, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Let’s dive into this homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 pint fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup water (if needed for desired consistency)
Instructions:
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Prepare the fruit: Gently wash and hull the strawberries. Slice them into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the blueberries and set aside. This step ensures your delicious dishes are fresh and clean.
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Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to distribute the sugar evenly.
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Cook the fruit: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Simmering allows the strawberries and blueberries to release their natural juices, creating a beautiful sauce.
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Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to form a slurry. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering fruit mixture, whisking continuously. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, glossy texture.
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Simmer and cool: Continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the perfect consistency.
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Cool and serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool completely. Once cooled, you can serve it as is, over vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes. This simple dessert is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Tips and Variations:
- Sweetness level: Adjust the sugar amount according to your preference. Taste the mixture before adding the cornstarch slurry and adjust the sugar accordingly.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting twist.
- Citrus zest: Incorporate a little lemon or orange zest for an extra layer of citrusy flavor.
- Frozen fruit: If fresh fruit isn't available, you can use frozen strawberries and blueberries. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: 35-45g
- Sugar: 25-35g
- Fiber: 2-4g
This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that are both delicious and healthy. It's a great way to incorporate more fruit into your diet. Enjoy this burst of summer flavors! Perfect for quick dinner ideas, this recipe is sure to become one of your best recipes. It's simple, delicious, and utterly satisfying – a true testament to the beauty of homemade cooking.