Lemon Curd and Fruit Parfait.

(Photo by Najla Amatur-Raheem)

You know I love to bake, and more than that I really enjoy eating what I bake. However, as I get older my metabolism is slowing down. My body isn't taking kindly to eating the baked goods and carbs at all. So I've recently done a serious cut back on baking and eating sweets. However I do treat myself to healthier, and less fatening desserts from a couple of times a week. Since I've began to limit my amout of gluten, sugar and dairy intake,I love finding recipes that are healthier and less expensive. This recipe that I made the other day had a wonderfully light flavor and was easy to make. It's great for the summer! No baking required so it keeps you from slaving over a hot oven during this summer heat.

Lemon Curd and Fruit Parfait

4 Tablespoons coconut oil, butter flavored palm oil, or butter
1/2 cup lemon juice, preferably fresh
1 teaspoon of pure white stevia powder
3 eggs
1 egg yolk
1 small pinch salt

Blend the ingredients, except for the butter, together. Heat slowly in small saucepan or double boiler. Whisk or stir frequently. When curd begins to thicken to the point where it coats the spoon remove from heat (don't let it get to boiling). Immediately whisk or stir in butter. Keep stirring until butter is melted and incorporated. Put in airtight container. Cool completely before using (it will thicken a bit more).

Once curd is cool or cold, layer in a large glass or bowl alternating with your fruit of choice. I used blackberries, sliced strawberries, and blueberries. And then top with homemade whipped cream.

Whipped Cream

1 cup of coconut cream or heavy cream
1 teaspoon of vanilla

Whip with a hand mixer until fluffy and has consistancy of whipped cream.
Do not over mix.

You may add a blueberry or whole strawberry for presentation

* Depending on the type of stevia you use, you may have to play around with the amount that you add in order to get the desired sweetness. Pure stevia (a natural herb)is sweeter than mixed stevia. Some of the stevia powders have a small amount of filler, like rice starch and aren't as sweet as pure stevia. Stevia is great for anyone who desires to lose weight, or control their sugar. Pure stevia powder has 0 calories and 0 carbs. Enjoy!