This simple preparation for fresh strawberries has long been a favorite of mine. The almond flavor of amaretto melds perfectly with the sweetness and aroma of lush, ripe strawberries.

　　

Ingredients

4 to 6 servings

　　1 pint flavorful fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

　　3 tablespoons amaretto (almond liqueur)

　　Low-fat vanilla yogurt, frozen yogurt, soy yogurt, or non-dairy frozen dessert

　　

Step 1

Combine the strawberries with the amaretto in a serving container and stir together. Crush about 1/4 cup of the strawberries with a fork, and mix again.

　　

Step 2

Let the mixture stand for about 30 minutes before serving (if you are planning to let it stand any longer than that, cover and refrigerate). Serve over yogurt or frozen yogurt in dessert bowls.

　　

strawberries

Step 3

The season for good, locally grown strawberries is fleeting, unless you live in California. Though it’s possible to buy them nearly all year, mass-produced strawberries are the equivalent of flavorless hothouse tomatoes. There’s nothing like the real thing, freshly picked.

　　

Step 4

I’m fortunate to live in the Hudson Valley region of New York state, where both cosmopolitan and rural pleasures abound. Thriving small farms yield lush seasonal produce, with many outlets for picking your own. I love to take my sons to pick our own produce—it’s a great way to appreciate the connection between the land and the kitchen. We especially like to pick berries. The first time we picked strawberries, one of my boys kept putting his head in the bucket to take a deep breath, saying, “It smells so relaxing!” As he grows older, I’m sure that the scent of strawberries will spur pleasant memories.

　　

nutrition information

Step 5

Calories: 55

　　

Step 6

Total Fat: 0g

　　

Step 7

Protein: 0g

　　

Step 8

Carbohydrate: 8g

　　

Step 9

Cholesterol: 0mg

　　

Step 10

Sodium: 1mg

　　The Vegetarian 5-Ingredient Gourmet