Those of you who have had tried a balsamic reduction over your fruit know exactly where I’m coming from on this post.  Those of you who have not tried such a thing . . . well, it’s time you jumped on the wagon because you’re seriously missing out.  I know, I know.  It sounds completely weird and it’s hard to even imagine that such a concoction would taste so awesome.  But, I’m here to tell you that it is seriously awesome!

My sister-in-law reminded me of this beautiful combination when we had lunch a couple of weeks ago.  I was then asked to bring fruit to a family party and I didn’t even think twice about what I would take.  I put the fruit in a big bowl and then allowed everyone to add their desired amount of balsamic reduction and feta cheese to their own portions.  This worked out perfectly because most of the kids just had plain fruit while several of the adults had the more “sophisticated” salad.  I’ve been eating this for a snack or side dish almost every day since (because the balsamic reduction goes a LONG way).  It’s sweet and savory all at the same time.  If you haven’t tried this, you just have to give it a whirl.  If you have tried it, may this be your mouth-watering reminder to make it again.

Have I mentioned how much I love summer?

Watermelon, Strawberry, and Feta Salad With Balsamic Reduction

1 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
watermelon, cubed
strawberries, sliced
reduced fat feta cheese, crumbled

Place balsamic vinegar and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.  Bring just to a boil, and then turn down the heat so that the boil reduces to a simmer.  Stir occasionally and allow to simmer until the vinegar has reduced by at least half (for a thinner reduction) or to about 1/4 cup (for a more syrupy consistency – which is what I prefer).  This can take up to 20 minutes.  Allow to cool and transfer to an airtight container.  You can store the balsamic reduction in the refrigerator until ready to use.

For each serving, place about a cup of mixed fruit (watermelon/strawberries) on a plate.  Drizzle with balsamic reduction and 1 tablespoon feta cheese.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories:  66.3
Protein:  2.4g
Carbs:  12.8g
Fat:  1.3g (0.6g = Sat.)
Fiber:  2.3g
Sugars:  9.4g