In a Melon Mood

Ice cream is the perfect hot-weather dessert--even more so when it’s low in fat. For a refreshing change from the usual ice cream flavors try cantaloupe. Cantaloupes are now available in the markets at low prices. For the most flavor select one that is very ripe.

The low-fat custard base for the ice cream is made with nonfat dry milk powder and nonfat milk. Egg substitute is added to the hot mixture rather then eggs for consistency and flavor.

Let the custard cool completely before stirring in the pureed cantaloupe and vanilla. Freeze the ice cream in an ice cream maker. If you do not have one, pour the ice cream mixture into a loaf or deep dish, allowing room for stirring, then freeze. Stir the mixture several times during freezing.

*

This ice cream is especially good when served topped with fresh cantaloupe and raspberries.

CANTALOUPE ICE CREAM

1 medium cantaloupe

1 (.25-ounce) envelope unflavored gelatin

1/4 cup cold water

1/3 cup sugar

3 tablespoons nonfat dry milk

3 cups nonfat milk

1/2 cup nonfat egg substitute (equivalent to 2 eggs)

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla

Cantaloupe slices

Fresh raspberries

Fresh mint sprigs

Peel and seed cantaloupe. Blend in food processor or blender until pureed. Set aside.

Sprinkle gelatin over water in small bowl. Let stand until softened.

Combine sugar and nonfat dry milk in saucepan. Stir in milk until blended. Heat and stir to boiling. Add little hot mixture to egg substitute. Return to saucepan. Heat and stir just until slightly thickened, being careful not to curdle sauce. Stir in softened gelatin until dissolved.

Let cool to room temperature. Stir in vanilla and cantaloupe puree. Freeze in ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve garnished with cantaloupe slices and raspberries. Garnish with mint, if desired. Makes 8 servings.

Each serving contains about:

112 calories; 95 mg sodium; 2 mg cholesterol; trace fat; 21 grams carbohydrates; 7 grams protein; 0.24 gram fiber.

Ice cream dish and underliner from Bristol Farms Cook ‘N’ Things, South Pasadena.