Tropical Berry Ambrosia

Skill level: Easy

According to Greek and Roman mythology, ambrosia - the food of the gods - was thought to give the gift of immortality. Here on earth, mere mortals create ambrosia from tangy oranges, sweet coconut, and other luscious fresh fruits. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, this brightly colored fruit salad tastes truly divine.

Any child old enough to peel and cut an orange can make this Tropical Berry Ambrosia as a dessert for the whole family. The salad keeps for several days in the refrigerator and can easily be made in larger quantities for entertaining at Easter, July 4th, and other holidays.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings

Do this first:

1. Rinse the berries in a colander (in the sink) just before using. Remove any green leaves. Pat berries dry on paper towels.

2. Peel 1 large orange by either cutting the skin off with a knife or by peeling it with your hands. Be sure to cut off any of the excess bitter white part (the pith) that lies below the skin.

Ingredients and steps:
2 pints fresh strawberries, rinsed and dried
6 to 8 ounces fresh blueberries, rinsed and dried
2 average oranges, peeled
3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 lime

1. Slice the orange across into 1/4-inch wide slices, removing any seeds. (The slices should look like wheels with spokes.) Cut the lime in half. Cut the strawberries in quarters or bite size pieces.

2. Place half the orange slices in the bottom of the serving bowl. Add a layer of coconut, then half the strawberries, another layer of coconut, half the blueberries and another layer of coconut. Squeeze half the lime over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing the top layer with another squeeze of lime.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the salad to mix the ingredients. Serve chilled.

Tip
For a lovely presentation, bring the Tropical Berry Ambrosia to table before mixing, so all can appreciate the colorful layers.

Vary It!
The essential ingredients in Tropical Berry Ambrosia are oranges and coconut, but you can add any other combination of fruits. Pick whatever is fresh and in season - nectarines, blackberries, pineapple, and any kind of melon work well. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped mint leaves for a refreshing taste, or sprinkle some chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Tip
Don't wash berries until you're ready to use them - they start to mold in storage. Refrigerate fresh, unwashed berries layered between paper towels in an airtight container for two to five days.

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