Let’s be honest, sometimes the best summer desserts aren’t complicated. Sometimes, they’re a glorious explosion of fresh flavors, a little bit of creaminess, and a whole lot of joy. That’s exactly what these Strawberry Basil Ice Cream Parfaits deliver. I stumbled upon this combination quite by accident – a little too much basil in my strawberry jam, a craving for something cool, and a desire to elevate a simple dessert. The result? A surprisingly sophisticated treat that’s both incredibly refreshing and utterly addictive.
The key to this recipe is the balance of sweet and herbaceous. The basil adds a subtle, savory note that complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly. Don’t be intimidated by the basil – it’s not overpowering. A little goes a long way! We’re using fresh basil, finely chopped, to infuse the cream with its beautiful aroma and flavor.
These parfaits are incredibly easy to assemble, making them ideal for a last-minute gathering or a quiet evening treat. They’re also incredibly versatile – you can adjust the amount of basil to your preference, or even add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of tangy complexity. I like to serve them with a few fresh basil leaves for a beautiful garnish. They’re perfect for warm summer days, and trust me, your friends and family will be asking for the recipe! These parfaits are a beautiful balance of textures and flavors – the smooth ice cream, the juicy strawberries, and the slightly chewy basil. Let’s make some magic!
Description
Creamy vanilla ice cream layered with macerated fresh strawberries and finely chopped basil. A vibrant, refreshing dessert showcasing the harmonious blend of sweet, herbaceous, and cool flavors. Perfect for a light and elegant finish to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Macerate the Strawberries
In a medium bowl, combine the quartered strawberries, chopped basil, lemon juice, and granulated sugar. Gently stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Layering
In six clear glasses or parfait dishes, begin layering. Start with a generous scoop (approximately 80 grams) of vanilla ice cream.
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Add Strawberry Mixture
Spoon approximately 1/3 of the macerated strawberry mixture over the ice cream.
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Repeat Layers
Repeat the layering process – ice cream, strawberry mixture.
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Final Layer
Top with a final generous scoop of ice cream.
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Garnish (Optional)
Garnish with a fresh basil leaf.
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Chill
Cover the parfaits with plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Note
- For a smoother strawberry mixture, you can blend it with an immersion blender after maceration.
- You can substitute other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a less herbaceous flavor, reduce the amount of basil.
