Berry Yummy

The other day I was watching Giada DeLaurentiis on the Food Network. She made this gorgeous dessert with silky ricotta cheese, citrus and berries that just screamed summer to me. The best part is that altering it just a bit makes it a tad more healthy and just as delicious! Another bonus is pairing the sweet berry sauce with ricotta lowers the effect sugar has on the body and the blood sugar remains stable. This dessert packs a powerful punch of protein, calcium and antioxidants!


Berry Yummy Ricotta Sundaes

berry sauce:

Juice of one orange
Juice of one lemon
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/3 C. sugar
8 large strawberries, quartered
1/2 C. raspberries
1/2 C. blueberries

Put the juice of the orange and lemon into a sauce pan and add sugar and fruit. Let it come to a bubble and simmer for a few minutes. Stir in vanilla and remove from heat.

ricotta cream:
1 15oz. container good quality whole milk ricotta cheese(don't skimp here because it really affects the taste)
1 tsp. vanilla
1-2 TBS. honey depending on how sweet you want it. You can also use sugar or agave syrup.
Zest of one orange
Zest of one lemon

2 TBS. toasted almond slivers(reserve for topping)

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.

To serve: Divide the ricotta mixture among 4 dessert dishes and top with equal amounts of the berry sauce. Sprinkle with toasted almond slivers. Delish! Serves 4