The strawberry fields are truly forever here in the central coast. Every time I head north or east just a short mile or two I bump into a fruit stand, usually laden with strawberries, one of the perks California Central coast living. Roasted Strawberries with Labneh, a little jewel.
STRAWBERRY FIELDS
My two favorites things in the world are oranges and strawberries so I have landed in the land of milk and honey in California’s Central Coast. The farms abound, but slowly now sadly giving way to condos and shopping centers. However just a few short miles and I find myself on two lane highways out in the groves and strawberry fields.
The strawberry fields are truly forever here in the central coast. Every time I head out I bump into a fruit stand, usually laden with strawberries, one of the perks California Central coast living. Yes, it is winter but our mild winters allow strawberries to come in early. No, they are not as sweet as the summer ones, but a quick roast in the oven reveals the strawberries inherent sweetness.
LABNEH
Making Labneh (strained yogurt cheese) is easy, and it so versatile you will find yourself making it often. I shared on this recipe card a couple of ways to make labneh. One of my favorite is the simple Donvier Yogurt Cheese maker I featured here. Very low tech and worth your while to add to your kitchen. This simple strainer has a sealed top which keeps the yogurt fresh and easy to store. I like to leave the yogurt in and least 24 hours to achieve a creamy, thick texture.
You will see labneh for sale in many markets that carry Middle Eastern food. I found a great market by me here on the central coast, so happy. Basically, you are draining the liquid from full-fat yogurt, (I used goat yogurt). Labneh is great as a dip (savory) or sweet, as here with the roasted strawberries. I make it all the time as a substitute for cream cheese. I have even made it with non-dairy full-fat yogurts, such as coconut, if you are avoiding dairy.
ROASTED STRAWBERRIES
It’s not quite strawberry season, but we are seeing the berries from the local farms coming in much riper now that it is Spring. Roasting fruit brings out the sweetness. You can use regular confectioner’s sugar or a sugar substitute as I have here. Simply mash some of the roasted strawberries to make the ‘jam’ and leave the other half whole. Swirl a few tablespoons of the labneh on a plate, top the the strawberry mixture. Casual, simple, and delicious.
Beautiful Food By Design is my mantra and keeping things simple. Roasted Strawberries with Labneh a little jewel from the Bijouxs Kitchen.
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As always, enjoy. B
