I have a history of becoming really passionate about something and then letting it fall by the wayside when a new obsession comes my way. When I was really into knitting, for example, I didn’t just knit scarves and hats; I knit complete sweaters, bookmarked hundreds of patterns, and collected boxes and boxes of yarn. And I still have those dusty sweaters, patterns, and yarn, despite not having knit anything for years. So when I started this blog, I was worried that I might lose interest, stop posting, or get sick of food (okay, I never thought that last one could actually happen). But over the past year, I’ve only found myself becoming more and more passionate about cooking. This blog has become extra motivation to keep expanding my repertoire, and I’ve found that not only has my cooking improved as a result, but so has my photography and writing. Yes, this is my one year anniversary – for an entire year, I’ve been posting three recipes a week (not always an easy feat with a full-time job), and although it’s been difficult and stressful at times, it’s also been really really fun. Nothing too fancy today to celebrate, just a tasty and simple fruit salad with a twist. Whipped coconut cream on top adds the perfect amount of richness to this summer dessert, and sliced almonds add a little crunch. I hope you enjoy the recipe and hope you’ve been enjoying my blog! Thanks to anyone who’s reading this, and here’s to another year.
Layered Fruit Salad with Whipped Coconut Cream
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 15-ounce can coconut milk, chilled
- 2 Tbsp powdered sugar
- 2 nectarines, chopped
- 10 – 12 strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup grapes*
- 2 Tbsp sliced almonds
*Smaller grapes, like champagne grapes, work best. You’ll probably want to halve larger grapes.
Method:
- Carefully open 1 15-ounce can coconut milk, chilled, and skim the nearly solid coconut cream off the top, leaving behind the liquid (use for smoothies or cooking).
- In a stand mixer
fitted with the whisk attachment or using an electric mixer, beat the coconut cream on high speed until lightened and fluffy (this will be more similar in texture to whipped butter than whipped cream, but that’s just fine), then add 2 Tbsp powdered sugar, and continue beating until combined.
- In one large bowl or four separated bowls, layer 2 nectarines, chopped, 10 – 12 strawberries, chopped, and 1 cup grapes.
- Top with the whipped coconut cream and sprinkle with 2 Tbsp sliced almonds.
