Eton Mess Recipe

Fresh, local strawberries are a must this time of year! We love strawberries in all forms. From shortcakes to salads, cobblers and cakes, you really can't go wrong with this superfood. But our favourite way to enjoy these beautiful little morsels might just be as part of a glorious Eton Mess.  

Serves 6

Ingredients
1 quart fresh strawberries
500 mL 35% cream
2 plus 1 tbsp sugar
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 package meringue nests (6 per pack)

Optional Ingredients  (add to taste)
Chocolate Sauce
Strawberry Coulis 
Maltezers 
Walnuts
Pistachios
Banana
Pineapple
Cherries

Directions
Hull and quarter the strawberries, then sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of the sugar (reserve 6 whole berries for garnish). Allow to macerate for at least one hour, if possible.
Add the cream, remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar, and the vanilla extract in a mixing bowl,
Using either an electric mixer or a hand whisk, whisk the cream until firm peaks form.
Break the meringues into small pieces.
Fold the berries, whipped cream, meringue pieces, and any of the optional ingredients together in a bowl, then divide the mixture into 6 coupe bowls or glasses. Garnish with a whole strawberry on top.
Serve immediately.

Eton Mess is one of the easiest desserts you can make and always impresses. Serve this at the end of your next BBQ and be prepared for the praise that will follow. It's light, refreshing and tastes like summer! 

How do you enjoy your strawberries?