DESSERTS

Mixed berry coulis with Greek vanilla yogurt

Mixed berry coulis with Greek vanilla yogurt

This dessert looks and tastes very opulent, but it’s surprisingly healthy. Berries are one of nature’s true superfoods. They’re rich in antioxidants which help prevent cell damage and premature aging, they contain a phytochemical compound called ellagic acid, which studies have shown is a powerful cancer blocker, and they’re a rich source of fiber — particularly soluble fiber — which helps reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol.

The almonds scattered over this dessert are also very healthful and contain protein and many essential minerals including magnesium, potassium and calcium. They’re also a good source of dietary fiber and monounsaturated fat which helps protect against heart disease.

This dessert does contain full-fat yogurt, but as generations of Mediterraneans have shown us, full-fat dairy products like yogurt and cheese can easily fit into a healthy diet without doing any damage if they’re consumed in smaller amounts.

Mixed berry coulis with Greek vanilla yogurt
serves 4
Fresh strawberries and blueberries are folded through a berry sauce and served with vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt and almonds.
16 oz (450g) strawberries, hulled
10 oz (280g) blueberries
4 tablespoons confectioners’ (icing) sugar
¾ cup Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons sliced almonds (lightly toasted, if desired)
PUT half the strawberries and half the blueberries in a blender with 2 tablespoons of the sugar, and process until smooth. CUT the remaining strawberries into quarters, toss with the remaining blueberries, then fold into the berry sauce. MIX together the yogurt, vanilla, and remaining sugar in a small bowl until well combined. SPOON the berry coulis into four dessert bowls, top with the vanilla yogurt, and scatter each with a tablespoon of almonds.
This is one of the recipes from our cookbook The MediterrAsian Way.