(Culinary.net) On a cool, crisp morning, it’s hard to beat an exciting twist on a breakfast classic.

This French Toast Casserole is crisp on top while soft and moist in the middle, coming fresh out of the oven with the aroma of maple syrup and pecans that will have the whole house eager for a bite. It’s easy enough to make fresh in the morning- but can also be prepared the night before so all you have to do is add the topping and pop it in the oven.

Find more fresh breakfast recipes to start your day at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

French Toast Casserole

• 1          loaf French bread (about 1 1/2 pounds), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 5          large eggs
• 1 1/2    cups unsweetened milk
• 2          tablespoons brown sugar
• 2          teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1          teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4       teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4       teaspoon sea salt
• maple syrup, for serving

Topping:

• 2          tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted
• 2          tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2       cup chopped pecans
• 1          cup frozen strawberries
• 1          cup frozen blueberries
• confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

1. Grease 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Place bread cubes in baking dish. In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Pour mixture evenly over bread cubes.
2. If making casserole ahead, cover baking dish and refrigerate overnight. If baking immediately, let stand 30 minutes at room temperature to allow bread to soak up egg mixture.
3. Preheat oven to 350 F.
4. To make topping: Drizzle casserole with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and pecans. Top with strawberries and blueberries.
5. Cover and bake 35 minutes then uncover and bake 10-20 minutes, or until topping is browned and egg mixture has mostly set.
6. Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil and let stand 10 minutes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar. Serve with maple syrup.

Source: Culinary.Net

(Family Features) Bolstering your immune system during winter, when coughs and colds seem to take control, is a must for the entire family. Supporting your wellness can start in a simple place – with the foods you eat and drink.

Consider an easy choice for any season like Florida Orange Juice, which can help you and your loved ones get the vitamins and minerals you need all winter long. With 100% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C in every 8-ounce serving along with key nutrients like potassium and magnesium, there’s a reason it’s referred to as the “Original Wellness Drink.”

With no added sugar or artificial flavor, it provides the benefits you need without the additives you don’t. It contains natural sugar from the whole fruit for a delicious solution that’s one of nature’s nutrient-rich foods with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Plus, it’s easy to use as a nutritional ingredient in wintertime favorites like this comforting Orange Juice and Coconut Chickpea Soup or to start your day strong with a Superfruit Breakfast Smoothie.

Paired with a healthy lifestyle, 8 ounces of 100% orange juice may help support a healthy immune system as an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of vitamin D in fortified juices. Vitamin C is commonly associated with helping maintain and strengthen healthy immune systems by protecting cells and promoting the production and function of immune cells. Meanwhile, vitamin D also plays an important role in regulating immune response by helping immune cells fight off bacteria and viruses.

“Safeguarding your health against the spread of illness is important year-round, especially during colder months when reports of cold and flu increase,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “A key step in supporting your immune system is maintaining a well-balanced diet that is high in essential nutrients. Incorporating an 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice can help you meet the recommended daily value of vitamin C and support your hydration.”

Beneficial plant compounds, like those in Florida Orange Juice, along with flavonoids and colorful carotenoids work to support the immune system by fighting inflammation and helping cells communicate, which can help strengthen immune responses when encountering infections.

Additionally, 100% orange juice is a source of phytonutrients like hesperidin, which has been shown in clinical studies to have antioxidant-like properties, heart health benefits and may help reduce inflammation. Hesperidin has also been linked with benefits related to cognitive function, immune system function and bone health.

To find more information and immunity-boosting winter recipes, visit FloridaJuice.com.

Orange Juice and Coconut Chickpea Soup

Servings: 8

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 1/2 cups diced carrots
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 3 cloves garlic, finely grated
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 quart vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 ounces) light coconut milk
• 1 can (14 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup Florida Orange juice
• chopped cilantro (optional)

1. In medium saucepan over medium high, heat olive oil until it shimmers.
2. Add onions, bell pepper, carrots and salt; cook until onions are translucent, 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cardamom; cook 1-2 minutes, or until garlic is fragrant. Do not brown.
4. Add vegetable broth, coconut milk and chickpeas; bring to simmer.
5. Decrease heat to low and cook until carrots are tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Add orange juice, remove from heat and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
7. Serve garnished with cilantro, if desired.

Superfruit Breakfast Smoothie

Servings: 2

• 8 ounces Florida Orange Juice
• 4 ounces dark sweet cherries
• 2 ounces pomegranate juice

1. In blender, puree orange juice, cherries and pomegranate juice then serve.

Making a delicious oatmeal smoothie has never been easier. Just six ingredients and a blender is all you need to make the perfect fruit-smoothie at home. Deliciously sweet and creamy this strawberry oatmeal smoothie makes for a healthy and filling breakfast or snack.
 

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Strawberry Oatmeal Smoothie

• ½ cup rolled oats
• 1 banana
• 14 frozen strawberries
• 1 cup soy milk
• 1 ½ teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Use blender to grind up oats.
2. Add soy milk, strawberries, banana, vanilla extract and sugar then blend until smooth.
3. Pour and serve.

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) Elevate summer desserts all season long with versatile, refreshing ingredients that can transform classics like ice cream into a new treat that’s bound to become a family favorite.

This Creamy Vegan California Grape Ice Cream offers a dairy-free alternative to traditional summer sweets and is powered by Grapes from California. Simply puree grapes, combine with oat coffee creamer and let your freezer do the work. The result is a perfect balance of cold, fruity goodness in a silky-smooth bite.

Crisp, juicy and sweet, grapes also provide flavor and texture in a wide range of recipes.  As an easy, portable and healthy snack, grapes can also be frozen for a simple, standalone dessert ideal for summer occasions.

Find more ways to cool off in the heat by visiting GrapesFromCalifornia.com.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Creamy Vegan California Grape Ice Cream

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10-15 minutes, plus 6-8 hours freeze time
Servings: 8 (1/2 cup per serving)

• 1          pound stemmed black Grapes from California
• 12        ounces vanilla oat coffee creamer, well chilled
• 12        ounces unsweetened oat coffee creamer, well chilled

1. In high-speed blender, puree grapes until smooth. Transfer to medium saucepan and bring to simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook 10-15 minutes, or until reduced to 1 cup. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled.
2. Stir creamer into pureed grapes and pour into stainless steel mixer bowl. Using stand mixer, mix well. Cover and freeze 6-8 hours or overnight.

Substitution: For lighter color, use 3/4 pound black grapes and 1/4 pound red.

Note: Make sure stainless steel bowl is well chilled or frozen before making ice cream.

Nutritional information per serving: 140 calories; 0 g protein; 22 g carbohydrates; 6 g fat (39% calories from fat); 0 g saturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 45 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.

Source:

California Table Grape Commission

(Family Features) Perfect for a picnic, celebrating a birthday or just enjoying time with family and friends, the classic combination of strawberries and cream serves as both a sweet treat and a crowd favorite.

This version adds another tasty treat – popcorn – so you can triple down on deliciousness. With just three ingredients, it’s easy to make and ideal for sharing. Simply drizzle popcorn with melted white chocolate chips and top with pulsed freeze-dried strawberries for a kid- and adult-friendly flavor trio.

An added benefit: Popcorn is a whole grain that’s 100% unprocessed with no additives, hidden ingredients or GMOs while providing nutrients like zinc, magnesium, B vitamins and fiber. At just 30 calories per cup of air-popped popcorn, it’s an energy-providing snack full of complex carbohydrates.

Visit Popcorn.org to find more sweet snacking solutions.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Strawberries and Cream Popcorn

Servings: 4-6

• 1/4       cup freeze-dried strawberries
• 6          cups popped popcorn
• 1          cup white chocolate chips, melted

1. In small food processor or spice grinder, pulse freeze-dried strawberries until finely ground.
2. Place popcorn in large bowl. Drizzle melted chocolate over top; toss until well coated. Sprinkle evenly with ground freeze-dried strawberries; toss until well coated.
3. Scrape onto large parchment paper-lined baking sheet, spreading into even layer.
4. Let stand at room temperature 30-60 minutes, or until chocolate is set and hardened. To serve, break into pieces.

Tips: To melt chocolate: In heatproof bowl over saucepan of barely simmering water, stir chocolate chips 3-5 minutes, or until smooth.

To melt chocolate in microwave: In microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, microwave chocolate on medium heat 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, or until smooth and melted.

Source: Popcorn Board

(Family Features) When hunger strikes and family fun calls for a snack to keep the excitement going, take your kiddos to the kitchen to whip up a tasty treat for all to enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or watching favorite movies, turn to an ingredient like popcorn that encourages creativity. Plus, it’s a delicious way for adults to turn back the clock and recreate childhood memories while making new ones with the family.

Consider these popcorn-inspired snacks to serve during your next adventure:

• Take yourself back in time to your own childhood with a classic pairing that never goes out of style: Peanut Butter and Jelly Popcorn. This version offers a fun way to jazz up popcorn for kids and adults alike with a sprinkling of strawberries and dried cranberries on top for added nutrition.
• When it’s time for a little fun in the sun or a trip to the park, sweeten up the celebration with this Graham Cracker Picnic Mix that’s a flavorful, kid-favorite combination of popcorn, bear-shaped graham crackers, marshmallows, fudge-covered pretzels and miniature cookies.
• Pizza is hard to beat as a snacking solution the whole family can enjoy, and this Grab and Go Pizza Popcorn is no exception. Ready in just minutes by mixing popcorn, Parmesan cheese and seasonings, little ones can help prepare a batch quickly before heading out the door.
• Colorful and fun, these Minty Green Popcorn Clusters are simple to make and a perfect treat to share. Just melt together marshmallows, butter, salt, green food coloring and peppermint extract before tossing with popcorn and green candy-coated chocolates.

To find more family-friendly snack time favorites, visit Popcorn.org.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Popcorn

Servings: 4-6

• 8 cups popcorn
• 2 tablespoons raspberry jam
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons smooth natural peanut butter
• 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

1. In large bowl, stir popcorn and jam until evenly coated. Transfer to parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
2. In small heatproof bowl over small saucepan of barely simmering water, add white chocolate chips and peanut butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, 3-5 minutes, or until smooth and melted.
3. Drizzle peanut butter mixture over popcorn mixture. Sprinkle with strawberries and cranberries.
4. Refrigerate 10 minutes, or until peanut butter mixture is set; break into pieces to serve. Store in airtight container in refrigerator up to 1 week.

Graham Cracker Picnic Mix

Yield: About 12 cups

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 5-6 drops pink neon liquid food color or desired color
• 1/2 cup unpopped popcorn kernels
• 1 package mini pastel marshmallows
• 1 cup bear-shaped graham crackers
• 1 package white fudge-covered pretzels
• 1 cup mini cookies

1. In large pot over medium heat, stir oil, sugar and food coloring.
2. Stir in popcorn kernels; cover. Cook until popcorn begins to pop. Shake pot over heat until popping slows.
3. Remove pan from heat and pour popcorn into large bowl.
4. Add marshmallows, graham crackers, pretzels and cookies then toss lightly.

Grab and Go Pizza Popcorn

Yield: 6 quarts

• 6 quarts popped popcorn
• olive oil cooking spray
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic salt
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1. Place popcorn in large, sealable plastic container or 2 1/2-gallon plastic sealable bag.
2. Spray popcorn lightly with cooking spray.
3. Sprinkle cheese, garlic salt, paprika and Italian seasoning over popcorn and shake to distribute evenly.
4. To serve, scoop popcorn into reusable plastic cups.

Minty Green Popcorn Clusters

Yield: 32 clusters

• 12 cups unsalted, unbuttered, popped popcorn
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 2 tablespoons butter or light olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon green food coloring
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup green candy-coated chocolate candies

1. Place popcorn in large mixing bowl.
2. In saucepan over medium heat, melt marshmallows, butter and salt, stirring occasionally, until smooth. Remove from heat; stir in food coloring and peppermint extract.
3. Toss marshmallow mixture with popcorn; cool 2-3 minutes, or until cool enough to handle. Toss with chocolate candies.
4. Shape 3 tablespoons of popcorn mixture into small cluster; repeat with remaining popcorn mixture. Place on wax paper-lined baking sheet; cool completely.

Source:

Popcorn Board

(Family Features) Sharing a delicious, home-cooked meal with loved ones is something to look forward to and preparing such a meal can be easier than you think. Simple touches that add some flair make all the difference. For example, adding grapes as a signature ingredient adds a unique color and flavor accent that turns everyday meals into something special.

As a highly versatile addition to appetizers, snacks, main courses, sides and desserts, Grapes from California are an essential ingredient to keep on hand. In this Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with Grapes, Carrots and Parsnips, the grapes – thanks to their delicate sweetness and juicy texture – enhance the savory chicken and earthy vegetables and bring all the flavors together for a delicious meal.

Visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com to find more sweet recipes fit for family gatherings.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with Grapes, Carrots and Parsnips

Servings: 4

•             Nonstick cooking spray (optional)
• 2          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 1/2    teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 1/4    teaspoons turmeric
• 1/2       teaspoon sea salt
• 2          large garlic cloves, minced
• 4          bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed and visible fat trimmed
• 2          medium onions, sliced 1/3-inch thick
• 3          carrots, peeled and cut in 2-by-1/2-inch sticks
• 2          medium parsnips, peeled and cut in 2-by-1/2-inch sticks
• freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 1/4    cups red Grapes from California

1. Heat oven to 400 F with rack in center. Line shallow baking sheet (10-by-15 inches or 11-by-17 inches) with parchment paper or foil. If using foil, spray with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In large bowl, stir oil, cumin, turmeric, salt and garlic. Add chicken, turning to coat, then transfer smooth side up to baking sheet. Add onions, carrots and parsnips to bowl and toss in remaining spiced oil then distribute around chicken on baking sheet. Season with freshly ground pepper, to taste.
3. Roast chicken and vegetables 25 minutes. Sprinkle grapes over vegetables and roast about 5 minutes until juices run clear when chicken is pierced with tip of small, sharp knife.
4. Note: For softer roasted grapes, add to pan earlier.
5. Nutritional information per serving: 410 calories; 31 g protein; 34 g carbohydrates; 17 g fat (37% calories from fat); 3.5 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 155 mg cholesterol; 470 mg sodium; 6 g fiber.

Source: California Table Grape Commission

(Family Features) Setting the stage for success in the classroom starts with reliable morning routines the whole family can depend on. Establishing a plan for each day before heading off for work or school is beneficial for staying on time and organized, and many families’ mornings start with a nutritious breakfast.

This school year, add better-for-you breakfast recipes like Orange Oatmeal or an Orangeberry Smoothie to the menu. These morning meals are powered by 100% orange juice, a delicious option that helps fuel the body with essential nutrients that support a healthy immune system and overall diet quality with no added sugar.

“A growing number of research studies has revealed children who regularly drink 100% orange juice have higher intakes of key nutrients, higher quality diets and may have healthier lifestyle habits, like greater physical activity levels, than children who do not drink OJ,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “Study after study confirms that 100% orange juice not only has a place in the diets of children, but it can also serve as an easy way for parents to provide key nutrients without fear of adverse effects on body weight when served in moderation.”

Consider these nutritional benefits of Florida Orange Juice, “The Original Wellness Drink.”

Diet Quality
Because 1 cup of 100% orange juice counts as 1 cup of fruit, it’s an easy way to contribute to your children’s fruit intake. As a kid-favorite, it’s a nutrient-dense beverage that helps increase the intake of key nutrients including vitamin C, folate, thiamin, magnesium, potassium and, in fortified juices, vitamin D and calcium.

Immune Support
When paired with a healthy lifestyle, Florida Orange Juice has vitamin C, vitamin D (in fortified juices) and phytonutrients (naturally occurring plant compounds) and may help support a strong immune system.

• Vitamin C – Commonly associated with helping maintain and strengthen a healthy immune system by protecting cells and promoting the production and function of cells. One 6-8-ounce glass of OJ is an excellent source.
• Vitamin D – Plays an important role in regulating immune response and helps cells fight off bacteria and viruses that get into the body. One 6-8-ounce glass of fortified OJ is a good source.
• Plant Compounds, Flavonoids and Colorful Carotenoids – Work to support the immune system by helping to fight inflammation and helping cells communicate with each other, which can help strengthen immune response when encountering infection.

No Added Sugar
Unlike foods and beverages that contain added sugars, the natural sugar in 100% orange juice contains vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. As one of nature’s nutrient-rich foods, OJ is a convenient way to enhance whole fruit intake and reach daily recommendations. Plus, it can be used as a substitute for nutrient-poor foods and beverages, such as sugar-sweetened beverages, in the diets of children and adults.

Find more information and recipe inspiration at FloridaCitrus.org/OJ.

Orange Oatmeal

Servings: 4

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1 cup quick cooking steel-cut oats
• 1 Florida Orange, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

1. In medium saucepan over high heat, bring water and orange juice to boil.
2. Add oats to boiling liquids.
3. Return to boil then reduce to medium heat and cook uncovered 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Mix in orange, agave nectar, cinnamon and salt. Remove pan from heat; let stand 1 minute before serving.

Orangeberry Smoothie

Servings: 1

• 1 cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
• 4 ounces strawberry Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk
• ice cubes
• 1 Florida Orange, sliced

1. In blender, blend orange juice, strawberries, yogurt, milk and ice, as needed to reach desired consistency, until smooth.
2. Pour into glass and garnish with orange slice.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

(Family Features) Whether it’s at school or at home after a day of learning, many kids love to snack. Lunches and snacks that are packable, easy to make and fun to eat start with a convenient, versatile ingredient like grapes. As a favorite fruit that goes well with a wide variety of ingredients, grapes offer a balance of sweet and tart for a juicy burst of flavor perfect for packing in school lunchboxes.

While it’s easy and healthy to simply pack a serving of grapes on their own, you can also aim for a modern take on a Japanese bento box, which provides a balanced lunch with an array of ready-to-eat components. For example, these snackable combos offer brain-fueling energy and hydration:

• Hummus, crackers, red bell pepper slices and grapes
• Cheese, almonds and grapes
• Nut butter, crackers, baby carrots and grapes
• Trail mix, crackers and grapes

Starting the day on a bright note can be the difference between success in the classroom or that sleepy feeling caused by hunger. You can give a boost to your student’s morning with an easy Breakfast-to-Go Grape Smoothie that delivers fruit, protein and fiber all in one tasty drink.   

To find more energy-boosting recipe ideas to power your child’s education, visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com.

Breakfast-to-Go Grape Smoothie

Servings: 2

• 1 1/2 cups frozen California grapes
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1/2 cup vanilla or honey low-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup grape juice
• 1/4 cup wheat flake cereal

1. In blender, blend grapes, banana, yogurt, grape juice and cereal 1 minute. Serve immediately.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 251 calories; 6 g protein; 57 g carbohydrates; 1.5 g fat (5% calories from fat); 2 mg cholesterol; 47 mg sodium; 3 g fiber.

Source: California Table Grape Commission

(Family Features) Whether your family’s ideal summer day consists of swimming, hiking, biking or simply enjoying the sunshine, all that time in the heat calls for a sweet way to cool off. It’s hard to beat a homemade treat loaded with favorite summertime flavors that’s as cold and creamy as it is sweet and delicious.

For a lighter, better-for-you solution, this Watermelon Gelato has about half the fat and fewer calories than traditional ice cream but with equally mouthwatering flavor. In fact, the word “gelato” means “ice cream” in Italian, and while the two frozen desserts have much in common, gelato is typically lower in fat with more density.

If you’re looking for an added touch of tastiness, try adding a few chocolate chips to the mix in the last few minutes of churning in your ice cream maker, or simply add some on top before serving.

When a summer weekend offers opportunities for morning kitchen lessons with the kiddos, they can help measure ingredients for Watermelon Ice Cream Bars and watch the magic happen as you mix up a watermelon curd, homemade crust and whipped cream. Once your creation freezes completely throughout the day, turn out and cut into bars for a cold afternoon treat following all that fun in the sun.

While sweet and tasty, these desserts also provide a bite of hydration with the power of watermelon, which is 92% water for a delicious way to rehydrate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, daily fluid intake is defined as the amount of water consumed from foods, plain drinking water and other beverages, meaning you don’t have to rely only on what you drink to meet your fluid needs.

Because what you eat also provides a significant portion of daily fluids, fruits and vegetables like watermelon can help you and your family stay hydrated for whatever summer days bring your way.

Find more sweet summer recipe ideas at Watermelon.org.

Watermelon Ice Cream Bars

Servings: 8

Watermelon Curd:

• 3/4 cup watermelon juice
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 pinch salt
• 3 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), cut into small cubes

Crust:

• 8 graham crackers, crushed
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 pinch salt
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled
• basil leaves, for garnish

Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

1. To make watermelon curd: In medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine watermelon juice, lime juice, honey and salt. Stir to combine then add eggs.
2. Place pan over medium heat and cook, adding cubed butter to pan and stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats back of wooden spoon. Immediately remove from heat and carefully pour through fine mesh sieve. Cool completely in refrigerator.
3. To make crust: Preheat oven to 350 F.
4. In food processor, pulse graham crackers until rough crumbs form. Add honey, salt and melted butter; pulse until mixture resembles wet sand.
5. Line 8-by-8-inch pan with parchment paper then press graham cracker mixture into bottom of pan in even layer. Bake crust about 10 minutes, or until just beginning to brown. Allow crust to cool completely.

Watermelon Gelato

Servings: 8

• 2 cups pureed watermelon
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup fat-free half-and-half
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup whipping cream

1. In blender, blend watermelon, sugar, cornstarch, half-and-half, lemon juice and whipping cream until smooth.
2. Using ice cream maker, process gelato according to manufacturer's instructions.
3. To make whipped cream: When crust and curd are completely cooled, in large bowl, whip cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently push cream to one side of bowl and pour in watermelon curd. Using spatula, gently fold cream and watermelon curd together until no streaks are visible.
5. Pour creamy watermelon mixture over graham cracker crust. Freeze dessert completely, 4-6 hours or overnight.
6. When ready to serve, loosen sides with small spatula or butter knife. Turn out onto cutting board and use large spatula to flip so graham cracker crust is on bottom. Cut into eight bars and top each with basil leaf.

Source: National Watermelon Promotion Board