Strawberries In Balsamic with Whipped Mascarpone Cheese
(Fragole In Balsamico con Mascarpone Montata)
Ingredients:
Three 1-pint baskets (about 24 ounces) strawberries, hulled, halved
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons plus 4 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup chilled mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup chilled whipping cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Combine vinegar, 2 teaspoons sugar, and lemon juice in heavy small saucepan.
Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
Boil until syrup is reduced to scant 1/4 cup, about 3 minutes.
Transfer to small bowl.
Cool completely.
Combine mascarpone, cream, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons sugar in medium bowl.
Whisk until thick soft peaks form.
Cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours.
Combine berries and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar in large bowl.
Drizzle with balsamic syrup and toss to blend.
Let stand 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Divide berries and syrup among 6 goblets.
Top with mascarpone mixture. Makes 6.