The recipe for Creamy Pineapple & Peach Dessert with Orzo Pasta combines unexpected ingredients into a delightful and refreshing dessert experience. It creatively blends orzo pasta, crushed pineapple, ricotta cheese, and instant vanilla pudding to create a creamy and tropical-flavored treat. Let’s delve into the details of each component and the steps to make this unique dessert.
Ingredients:
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Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta adds a unique texture to the dessert, complementing the creamy elements with a slight chewiness.
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Ladyfingers: Used to line the baking dish, ladyfingers provide a delicate base that soaks up the flavors from the fruits and juices.
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Crushed Pineapple: Adds sweetness and tanginess, infusing the dessert with tropical flavors.
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Ricotta Cheese: Provides creaminess and a slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
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Milk: Used to prepare the instant vanilla pudding, contributing to the creamy texture of the dessert.
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Instant Vanilla Pudding: Thickens the dessert and adds a classic vanilla flavor.
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Cool Whip: Used as a topping, adding a light and airy finish to the dessert.
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Peaches: Adds sweetness and freshness, balancing the flavors of the pineapple and ricotta.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 327.5 per serving
- Fat Content: 10.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 6.9g
- Cholesterol Content: 73.8mg
- Sodium Content: 211.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 50.8g
- Fiber Content: 2.2g
- Sugar Content: 29.3g
- Protein Content: 9g
Instructions:
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Cooking the Orzo Pasta: Begin by cooking the orzo pasta in boiling water for about 6 minutes until tender yet firm. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
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Preparing the Baking Dish: Line an 11 by 7 inch baking dish with ladyfingers, ensuring the bottom is covered evenly. Brush the ladyfingers with reserved pineapple juice for added flavor.
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Layering the Ingredients: Arrange a layer of peaches over the ladyfingers, reserving a few slices for garnish. Sprinkle crushed pineapple over the peaches.
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Preparing the Creamy Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese until smooth. Add milk and instant vanilla pudding mix, whisking for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the cooked orzo pasta until well combined.
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Assembling the Dessert: Pour the creamy mixture over the pineapple layer in the baking dish, ensuring it spreads evenly. Refrigerate the dessert for about 20 minutes to allow it to set slightly.
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Final Touches: Cover the pasta layer with Cool Whip or whipping cream for a light and fluffy topping. Garnish with the reserved peach slices for a decorative finish.
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Chilling: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set properly.
This recipe not only offers a surprising twist with the inclusion of pasta in a dessert but also promises a creamy, fruity, and refreshing treat that is perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks. It’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking time and basic ingredients that are readily available. The combination of pineapple, peach, and ricotta cheese ensures a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests and leave them asking for more of this unique dessert creation.
