3 Mix-Ins to Customize Store-Bought Gelato

Ingredients

Strawberries Balsamic Sauce:

• 2 cups strawberries, stemmed and quartered
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup superfine sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Put the strawberries into a bowl and sprinkle the balsamic vinegar and sugar over them. Add a pinch each of salt and pepper. Toss gently and marinate for 2 to 3 minutes.
• Yield: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Inactive Prep Time: 2 to 3 minutes

Directions

Mint Pesto:

1 bunch mint leaves, lightly chopped, about 1/2 cup

1/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons water

Mix the sugar and mint in a mortar, grinding well with the pestle. Add the water and mix. Chill if not using immediately.

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 6 minutes

Cook Time: 0

Inactive Prep Time: 0

Chocolate Espresso Ganache with Hazelnuts:

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon instant espresso powder

1/2 cup chopped toasted hazelnuts

Put the chocolate into a medium heatproof bowl. Bring the cream and the espresso powder to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Immediately pour the boiling cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 1 minute. Using a spatula, slowly stir in a circular motion until all the chocolate is melted, do not stir in too much air. Add in the chopped toasted hazelnuts and allow the mixture to cool. The ganache may be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Inactive Prep Time: 30 minutes