Could you say that strawberries mean Spring is here? We think so. Along with enjoying them right out of hand, we love coming up with ideas that highlight their incredible bright colors and flavor. This recipe is one that you can whip up in no time at all – that looks, and tastes like much more!

Our nut of choice in this quick and easy dessert is pecans. No secret that pecans are our favorite in Georgia, yummy and sweet. We are the number ONE pecan producer in the United States. Pecan season is September and October in Georgia, but with a little “thinking ahead” we can enjoy our Georgia pecans year round. Make sure to store your fresh pecans in the freezer if you are going to use them January to December.

Mint tops these east-to-make treats. Mint and strawberries are a super flavor foil for each other, both bringing more intensity to the pairing. Mint promotes digestion and helps with any nausea or vomiting issues. Mint is a natural stimulant, and the smell alone can be enough to charge your batteries and get your brain functioning on a high level again. If you are feeling sluggish, anxious, depressed, or simply exhausted, mint and its derivative essential oils can help.

Strawberry Ricotta and Pecan Parfaits

1 Pint Strawberries, chopped finely
1 Cup Part Skim Ricotta Cheese
1 TB Powdered Sugar
1/2 Tsp Vanilla Extract
½ Cup Toasted Chopped Pecans
Fresh Chopped Mint for Garnish

Layer the chopped strawberries in a small jar or parfait glass. Stir the cheese, sugar and vanilla together in a small bowl, and then layer on top of the strawberries. Sprinkle on the pecans and garnish with the mint.