Simply Delicious!
As summer roars into full bloom, grocers’ shelves are bursting with fresh fruit which is ready to be enjoyed. Yes, you could slice up all of those beautifully ripe peaches and strawberries and throw them into a pie shell or tart; but why not consider this simple alternative which is not only delicious but also healthier!
Even the most finicky eater will not be able to resist nibbling on a fresh slice of melon or a juicy chilled grape; especially when paired with a bite-size cube of cheese. I prefer to use a cheese with a distinct flavor which enhances the fruits flavors, without overpowering or disappearing on the palate. In this platter, I have used a semi-soft Cuban cheese which is truly marvelous with any fruit; but any great cheese will do.
In case you are feeling like your fruit platter is not “special enough” to serve company, and are wanting to add a little extra burst of flavor, try the pictured dip:
Ingredients:
One package of cream cheese, softened.
One can of canned fruit – I have used papaya canned in syrup. Open the can and reserve a few pieces of fruit to garnish the dip.
Directions:
In a food processor combine cream cheese and canned fruit, pulsating until smooth, adding the syrup from the can, as needed to achieve the constancy you desire.
If you like, you can serve a plate of short bread cookies or crackers to accompany the fruit, cheese, and dip; but I have to say they really are needed.
