Meaning “half cold” in Italian, think of semifreddo as sliceable ice cream. This lime-forward riff on the elegant cold treat teams up with coconut cream and trendy avocado to keep it dairy free but still oh-so-rich tasting. And since you don’t need an ice cream maker or any other fancy equipment to make it, it’s easy to whip up when the heat is on.
1 1/2 cups (350 mL) coconut cream
2 avocadoes
1/3 cup (80 mL) honey or agave syrup
1/3 cup (80 mL) fresh basil
Zest and juice of 2 limes
1/2 cup (125 mL) raw pistachios
1 cup (250 mL) raspberries (optional)
2 oz (56 g) grated white chocolate (optional)
Line standard loaf pan with parchment paper, making sure there is about 2 in (5 cm) of overhang along length of pan.
Using hand mixer or standing mixer with whisk attachment, whip coconut cream at medium speed for 2 minutes, or until it takes on a thicker whipped cream consistency. Set aside.
In blender or food processor, blend together avocado flesh, honey or agave syrup, basil, lime zest, and lime juice until smooth. Fold avocado mixture into coconut cream until well combined. Fold in pistachios.
Pour mixture into loaf pan and smooth out the top. Place another piece of parchment paper on top of avocado mixture. Freeze for 6 hours or overnight, until semifreddo firms up.
To serve, lift semifreddo out of pan using the parchment overhang and let sit at room temperature until it can be sliced. If you want semifreddo to be creamier and less icy, let slices rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes after slicing. Top with raspberries and chocolate, if using.
Serves 8.
Each serving contains: 312 calories; 6 g protein; 22 g total fat (8 g sat. fat, 0 g trans fat); 29 g total carbohydrates (19 g sugars, 6 g fibre); 13 mg sodium