Fruit And Acini De Pepe
A creamy, fruity chilled dessert combining sweet canned fruits, acini de pepe pasta, and a rich La Creme topping, perfect for summer gatherings and family desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, and cherries, and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine the fruit juices, sugar, beaten eggs, and flour.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the cooked mixture over the cooked and drained acini de pepe.
- Mix well and chill overnight.
- Add the drained cherries, oranges, pineapple, and La Creme.
- Mix well and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a flavored yogurt instead of La Creme, or try adding a bit of whipped cream for extra richness. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of it with honey or a sugar alternative. Ensure the acini de pepe is cooled completely before mixing with the fruit to prevent the fruit from becoming mushy.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for picnics or as a refreshing dessert at summer gatherings. Serve chilled and consider garnishing with fresh mint or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for added flair. It pairs beautifully with Mrs. Snow'S Mushrooms for a delightful meal combination or could be accompanied by a light salad for a complete lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve over time. If you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the texture. Avoid overheating to prevent the acini from becoming too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit And Acini De Pepe contains roughly 423 calories, with 7g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh fruit! Just ensure to peel and cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces. Fresh fruits like peaches or strawberries can add a wonderful touch and vibrant flavors, but be cautious with the moisture they release, which can alter the final texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or fish. However, for strict vegetarians or those avoiding eggs, you can experiment with egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or silken tofu to achieve a similar binding effect in the mixture.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is ideal for making ahead. Prepare the acini de pepe and the cooked mixture a day prior and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine everything just before serving to maintain the freshness of the fruits. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the texture intact.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).