My Weeknight Treat: A Healthy Dessert Mezze

Anjali Prasertong
Anjali Prasertong
Anjali Prasertong is a writer and public health dietitian focused on food systems, racial equity, and nutrition. Originally from Los Angeles, she has taught English in rural Japan, worked as a private chef in Malibu, and led an innovative city-funded corner store program in New Orleans that increased fresh food access in low-income neighborhoods. She was previously a contributing editor for The Kitchn, and currently lives in Denver with her husband and two kids.
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published Mar 29, 2012
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I have a pretty serious sweet tooth, which means my evening meal doesn’t feel complete without a little something sweet. Since dessert is a daily ritual, I save cakes, cookies and ice cream for occasionally treats, and instead put together a small spread of healthy yet satisfying bites. Let’s call it a dessert mezze.

Like Faith, dates have become a staple sweet for me, particularly Barhi dates, which have a caramel-like flavor and smooth texture. I like the contrast of the dates’ sugariness with the toasty crunch of nuts, usually almonds or pistachios. In-season fruit from the farmers market adds freshness and a little tartness to the plate, and a few chocolate-covered cranberries or cherries cover any chocolate cravings.

I alternate bites, savoring in particular the taste of a nut after eating a date, or the chocolate after a piece of fruit. For me, having a variety of tastes on one plate and eating them thoughtfully makes this collection of small nibbles quite satisfying.

Do you ever eat an assortment of sweets like this? What do you like to include?

Related: Healthy Indulgence: The Raw Brownie from My New Roots

(Image: Anjali Prasertong)

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Dessert
sweets