Basil-Lime Fruit Salad

I made this for a neighborhood bbq over the weekend. It was a huge hit! The original recipe called for 1/2 cup sugar, but I reduced it to 1/4 since the fruit has enough sugar. I love the fruits in this recipe, but you could use any fruits of your choice. Next time I'd add blueberries too.

Source: adapted from Cooking Light March 2008
Serves: 12

Ingredients:
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup basil leaves, packed
1 tbl lime rind, grated
4 cups pineapple, cubed (1 medium)
3 cups strawberries, quartered (1 lb)
4 kiwi, peeled and sliced (1.5 cups)
2 cups mangoes, peeled and cubed (2 large)

Directions:

1. Make the simple syrup by combining the sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Cook for a minute until the sugar is dissolved.



2. Remove pan from heat, stir in the basil and lime rind. Cool. Strain to discard the solids.



3. Combine the fruits in a large bowl. Drizzle with the simple syrup. Toss gently.