Berry Salad Supreme

Berry Salad Supreme Recipe - Vegan and Vegetarian Option

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Berry Salad Supreme is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of various berries with the rich, creamy texture of condensed milk, all brightened by a hint of lime. This delightful salad is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. Its simplicity, combined with the burst of flavors and colors, makes it a favorite among both adults and children.

History

The concept of fruit salad has been around for centuries, evolving with the availability of ingredients and the creativity of cooks. Berry Salad Supreme, in particular, is a modern take on traditional fruit salads, emphasizing the use of fresh berries and a simple, yet decadent dressing of condensed milk and lime. This recipe reflects a growing trend towards fresher, lighter desserts that still offer a touch of indulgence.

Ingredients

1 cup of raspberries
2 cups of strawberries
1 cup of blueberries
1 cup of blackberries
3 cups of grapes
2 tbsp of fruit juice (grapefruit, grape, lemon, or lime only)
3 tbsp of condensed milk
whipped cream (optional)

How to prepare

Blend the grapes until they are coarse, allowing any excess juices to spill out. Add the other mixed berries to the shredded grapes.
Spoon the fruit juice and condensed milk onto the fruits by mixing them together. Serve the fruit salad cold, either plain or with other fruits or desserts. Optionally, spoon or scoop some of the fruit salad into a fresh ramekin and top it with whipped cream.

Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable to personal taste and seasonal availability. Consider adding other fruits, such as slices of peach or mango, for additional flavor and texture. For a dairy-free version, substitute the condensed milk with coconut milk and omit the whipped cream.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and presentation for your Berry Salad Supreme, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh, ripe berries for the best taste and appearance.

- Gently wash and thoroughly dry the berries before use to remove any dirt or pesticides.

- Coarsely blend the grapes to release their juice without turning them into a puree, as this will help to dress the salad without overpowering the other fruits.

- Chill the salad before serving to enhance its refreshing taste.

- If using whipped cream, add it just before serving to maintain its texture.

Serving Suggestions

Berry Salad Supreme can be served as a standalone dessert or paired with other dishes for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with light summer fare, such as grilled chicken or fish, and can also be served alongside cakes or pastries for a more indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing Berry Salad Supreme is the coarse blending of the grapes to create a juicy base without turning them into a puree. This allows the flavors of the individual berries to shine through while providing a cohesive dressing for the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

If condensed milk is not available or desired, honey or agave syrup can be used as a sweetener. Lime juice can be substituted with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus note.

Make Ahead Tips

Berry Salad Supreme can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture and flavor, add the lime juice and condensed milk dressing just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Berry Salad Supreme in individual bowls or glasses for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with sparkling wines or light, fruity cocktails. Non-alcoholic options include iced tea or lemonade, which complement the salad's refreshing qualities.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Berry Salad Supreme is best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Berry Salad Supreme contains approximately 150-200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie dessert option. The majority of these calories come from the natural sugars in the berries and the condensed milk.

Carbohydrates

Berry Salad Supreme is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable dessert option for those monitoring their intake. The primary source of carbs in this dish comes from the natural sugars found in the berries and the added condensed milk. A serving of this salad contains approximately 20-30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This salad is low in fats, with the only significant source coming from the optional whipped cream topping. Without the whipped cream, the fat content is negligible, making it an excellent choice for those on low-fat diets.

Proteins

Berry Salad Supreme is not a significant source of protein, containing only small amounts naturally present in the berries. For those looking to increase protein intake, consider serving this salad with a side of Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts.

Vitamins and minerals

Berries are known for their high vitamin and mineral content, and this salad is no exception. It is rich in Vitamin C, thanks to the strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, and also provides a good amount of Vitamin K, manganese, and antioxidants, which are essential for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe is free from most common allergens, including gluten, nuts, and soy. However, those with dairy sensitivities should be cautious of the condensed milk and optional whipped cream.

Summary

Overall, Berry Salad Supreme is a nutritious and delicious dessert option. It is low in carbohydrates and fats, contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, and is relatively low in calories. It is also free from most common allergens, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Summary

Berry Salad Supreme is a delightful, nutritious, and versatile dessert that captures the essence of summer. Its combination of fresh berries, condensed milk, and lime creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a hit at any gathering. With its simple preparation and healthful ingredients, it's a guilt-free treat that can be enjoyed by everyone.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Berry Salad Supreme. It was a warm summer day, just like today, and I was at a neighborhood potluck gathering. I had brought my famous potato salad, but as I made my way around the buffet table, my eyes landed on a vibrant and colorful bowl of berries that immediately caught my attention.

I asked the hostess, Mrs. Jenkins, about the dish, and she eagerly shared the recipe with me. It was a simple combination of fresh berries, a touch of honey, a splash of citrus juice, and a sprinkle of toasted nuts. Mrs. Jenkins explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

I was intrigued by the simplicity of the recipe and the way the flavors of the berries shone through. I made a mental note to try it out at home, and as soon as I got back, I gathered the ingredients and got to work.

I started by washing and drying the berries – strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries – and arranging them in a large bowl. I then drizzled a bit of honey over the berries and squeezed the juice of a fresh orange and a lemon on top. I gave everything a gentle toss to ensure that the berries were evenly coated with the sweet and tangy mixture.

Next, I toasted some chopped almonds in a dry skillet until they were golden brown and fragrant, then sprinkled them over the top of the berry salad. The crunch of the nuts added a delightful texture to the dish, complementing the juicy sweetness of the berries perfectly.

I couldn't wait to share my creation with my family, so I called them all to the table and served up generous portions of the Berry Salad Supreme. The vibrant colors of the berries glistened in the sunlight streaming through the windows, and the aroma of citrus and honey filled the air.

As we dug into the salad, my family's eyes lit up with delight. The burst of flavors – the sweetness of the berries, the tartness of the citrus, and the crunch of the nuts – was a true symphony for the taste buds. My husband declared it the best fruit salad he had ever tasted, and my children eagerly asked for second helpings.

From that day on, Berry Salad Supreme became a staple in our household. I made it for every family gathering, potluck, and picnic, and it never failed to impress. The recipe quickly became a favorite among our friends and neighbors, who often asked me for the secret behind the delicious dish.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding some fresh mint leaves for a hint of freshness and substituting different types of nuts for the almonds. But no matter how many variations I try, the essence of the dish remains the same – a simple and elegant celebration of the natural sweetness of fresh berries.

I am grateful to Mrs. Jenkins for sharing her family recipe with me that fateful summer day. It has become a beloved tradition in our home, a reminder of the simple joys of sharing good food with loved ones. And as I look back on that day, I am filled with gratitude for the memories we have created around the table, savoring each bite of Berry Salad Supreme.