Tasty Tuesdays: Strawberries, Peaches, and Basil with Orange Vinaigrette

I saw this picture on Pinterest, and I couldn't help but go immediately to the recipe on Cooking Light.  Have you ever seen fruit that looks so delicous?!?!  I am a huge fan of pairing vinaigrettes with fruit.  One of my favorite ways to eat peaches or strawberries is to drizzle a little balsamic vinegar that has been sweetened with sugar right over them.  Have you tried that?  It's amazingly flavorful and super easy.  It's even better if you crack a little black pepper over the berries.

I thought this recipe was an interesting take on my summer staple of berries and balsamic.  I love the idea of using oranges and champagne vinegar.  Through is the addition of fresh basil, and I'm in heaven.

This is a pretty diet friendly dessert.  Some people don't think light sweets qualify as dessert so for them, I have a feeling it would be amazing served over fresh biscotti and mascarpone cheese too!

Strawberries, Peaches, and Basil with Orange Vinaigrette

Serves 4 (serving size: 1 1/4 cups)

Ingredients

1 cup fresh orange juice

• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons champagne vinegar or white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 
• Dash of salt
• 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries 
• 1 pound fresh strawberries, halved 
• 1 large ripe peach or nectarine, cut into 16 wedges
• 1/4 cup small fresh basil leaves

Preparation

1. 1. Combine first 3 ingredients in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Cook until reduced to 1/2 cup (about 15 minutes). Add oil and salt to pan, stirring with a whisk. Let stand 2 minutes.
2. 2. Combine berries and peach in a large bowl. Add juice mixture, stirring gently. Sprinkle with basil.