| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 315 | 8g | 3g | 52g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 37g | 2g | 15g | 0.2g |
One bite into this Horned Melon and Yogurt Parfait, and instantly, you are transported into a delightful symphony of flavors. The horned melon adds a unique touch, not to mention its stellar health benefits. This recipe absolutely sings to my Cuban and Spanish roots, blending traditional elements and remarkable ingredients to create a masterpiece of a dessert.
The Dance of Flavors in the Horned Melon and Yogurt Parfait
One could liken the marvellous mix of flavors in this recipe to a perfectly choreographed dance, not surprising, considering my background as a dance teacher. The tangy-yet-sweet horned melon, or ‘kiwano,’ as it’s also known, represents the dancers’ wild passion and energy, while the creamy Greek Yogurt, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, brings about a grounded, calming presence likes the base rhythm in any dance piece.
And as if the dance between these two star ingredients wasn’t tantalizing enough, the honey, lemon zest, and fresh mint leaves take on supporting roles, their flavors leaping and twirling, adding depth to this culinary performance. The granola and crushed almonds, with their crunch, serve as the applauding audience, their crunch echoing each rhythmic stomp of dancing feet.
Health Benefits
There’s not just dance and flavor in this Horned Melon and Yogurt Parfait, but a rich combination of health benefits as well. Horned melon is packed with Vitamin C and fiber, enhancing digestion and boosting immunity. Greek Yogurt, with its ample probiotics, aids in gut health. Honey serves as a healthier sweetener, with anti-inflammatory properties. Together, they create not just a delicious dessert, but also a powerhouse of nutritional benefits.
This recipe might be reminiscent of some fruit and yogurt parfaits, but the unique ingredients elevate it to a completely different level. It’s versatile and can be a great dessert post a traditional Spanish meal like a Seafood Paella, as it is a lighter and refreshing option. It can also be paired with a simple breakfast spread on a Sunday morning, or showcased in a brunch with friends.
However you decide to incorporate this Horned Melon and Yogurt Parfait into your menu, it’s sure to enthrall the taste buds – much like a captivating dance performance. So, put on your Chef’s hat and let the culinary dance begin!
What You’ll Need
- 3 horned melons
- 3 cups Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1/2 cup Honey
- 2 cups granola
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- 1 cup of fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup of crushed almonds
Method
Step One
Start by cutting the horned melons into two halves. Using a spoon, scoop out the interior of the fruit and place it in a large bowl. Make sure to only scoop the flesh, leaving out the seeds.
Step Two
To the scooped out melon flesh, add the Greek yogurt. Stir this mixture gently so that the yogurt and melon combine well yet preserves the fruit’s structure. For added sweetness, pour in the honey and combine everything again.
Step Three
In another bowl, combine the granola and crushed almonds. Add the lemon zest into this mixture for a tangy crunch. Mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
Step Four
Now, we begin to build the layers. Take a tall clear glass or a parfait cup. Start with the granola mixture at the bottom. On top of this, add a generous layer of the melon and yogurt mixture. Repeat the layering process until the cup or glass is full.
Step Five
Once the parfait has been layered, place it in the refrigerator for an hour or two before serving. This allows the flavors to settle in and the granola to soften slightly from the moisture in the yogurt.
Step Six
Just before serving, garnish the parfait with fresh mint leaves. This adds a refreshing touch to the sweet and tangy parfait. Your delicious and healthy horned melon and yogurt parfait is ready to serve.
