Melon, Berry & Pear Salad w/ Cayenne-Lemon-Mint Syrup

By á-47

Ingredients

• SYRUP
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 Tbsp. honey
• 1/2 tea. cayenne
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1 Tbsp. grated lemon rind
• SALAD
• 6 cups (1") cubed cantaloupe
• 6 cups (1") cubed honeydew
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1 1/2 cups (1/2") cubed ripe pear (about 2 medium()
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint
• 1/8 tea. freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Step 1

Prepare syrup: combine first 5 ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, cook 3 minutes or until mixture is slightly syrupy. Remove from heat, stir in 1/4 cup m,int and rind. Let stand 30 minutes. Strain syrup through a sieve into a bowl, discard solids.

Prepare salad: combine cantaloupe and remaining 7 ingredients in a large bowl. Add syrup, toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Yield: 10 servings (1 1/2 cups each)