Lemon Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Honey Nectarines and Strawberries

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This lemon vanilla bean panna cotta is the perfect light and refreshing summer dessert. Silky, creamy panna cotta flavored with fresh lemon and vanilla bean, topped with sweet nectarines and strawberries tossed in honey and lemon juice. It’s simple, beautiful, and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for summer gatherings.

Servings: 8

Prep time: 15 minutes

Chill time: At least 4 hours

Ingredients

Lemon Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta

• 1 packet (¼ ounce) unflavored gelatin

• 4 tablespoons cold water

• 1 cup whole milk

• 2 cups heavy cream

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• ½ tablespoon vanilla bean paste

• Juice of 1 lemon

Honey Nectarines and Strawberries

• Fresh nectarines, sliced

• Fresh strawberries, sliced

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2–3 tablespoons honey, or to taste

• Fresh mint, for garnish

Method

Lemon Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 4 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is just beginning to simmer around the edges. Do not let it boil.

3. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin, vanilla bean paste, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk until the gelatin has completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

4. Divide the mixture evenly between 8 small serving cups or ramekins.

5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until completely set.

Honey Nectarines and Strawberries

1. Slice the fresh nectarines and strawberries and place them in a medium bowl.

2. Add the lemon juice and honey. Gently toss until the fruit is evenly coated.

3. Cover and refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow the fruit to soften slightly and release its natural juices.

To Serve

1. Once the panna cotta has completely set, spoon the honey nectarines and strawberries over each serving.

2. Drizzle a little of the honey-lemon syrup from the fruit over the top.

3. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh mint and serve chilled.

Notes

• Make ahead: Panna cotta is a wonderful make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the day before and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

• Fresh fruit: Use ripe, in-season nectarines and strawberries for the best flavor. Peaches would also be delicious!

• Gelatin: Make sure the gelatin is completely dissolved before pouring the panna cotta into serving cups for a silky, smooth texture.

• Serving: I love serving these in individual glass cups so you can see the creamy panna cotta and colorful fruit.

• Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the freshest presentation, add the fruit just before serving.