Strawberry-Lemon Gelato

Strawberry-lemon gelato is fantastic and refreshing. "Gelato" is the Italian version of ice cream. It offers a smoother, creamier texture than you will find in ice cream and the flavor is also intense and delicious. While this may not be considered true gelato, it is about the closest you can get using an ordinary household ice cream machine.

1 Pound fresh strawberries
½ cup sugar
Juice of 1 Lemon*
½ cup whipping cream

1. Cut off green part of strawberry, known as hulling, and then slice each in half (larger strawberries may need to be cut into quarters.

2. In a food processor, process strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar until smooth. (A blender can be substituted for food processor.)

3. Pour through a fine mesh strainer to remove the seeds. Chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours. Pour into ice cream machine and run it for about 12 minutes. The gelato should be a smooth consistency.

4. While the machine is running beat the cream with an electirc mixer to a medium thick consistency. Slowly add the cream and continue running the machine for another 5 minutes. Serve immediately or put in freezer. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

* Placing lemon in the microwave for 10-15 seconds helps get the juices running causing the juices to be extracted easier.