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RECIPE OF THE WEEK #404

Balsamic Strawberries with Whipped Mascarpone Cheese

1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons plus 4 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup chilled mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup chilled whipped cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 1-pint baskets (about 24 ounces) strawberries, hulled, halved

Combine vinegar, 2 teaspoons sugar and lemon juice in heavy small saucepan.

Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Boil until syrup is reduced to scant 1/4 cup, about 3 minutes. Transfer to small bowl, cool completely. (Can be prepared 2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate.

Combine mascarpone, cream, vanilla and 2 tablespoons sugar in medium bowl. Whisk until thick soft peaks form. Cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours.

Combine berries and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar in large bowl, drizzle with balsamic syrup and toss to blend. Let berries stand 30 minutes stirring occasionally. Divide berries and syrup among 6 goblets. Top with mascarpone mixture and serve.

Makes 6 servings.