These Lemon Curd Meringue Nests Make a Light and Zesty Treat

Crisp, airy meringues go well with almost any fruit, but because they’re sweet, pairing them with the tart acidity of fresh citrus makes for a balanced—not to mention beautiful—dessert.

meringue nestsPhoto Credit: Ryan Szulc
Servings Prep Time Cook Time
6servings 30minutes 1 hour, 30 minutes
Servings Prep Time
6servings 30minutes
Cook Time
1 hour, 30 minutes
Ingredients
Servings: servings
Units:
Ingredients
Servings: servings
Units:
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 200°F (95°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Meringue Nests
  1. Whisk egg whites with an electric mixer on high until foamy. Gradually add sugar, mixing constantly on medium. Increase speed to high and whisk until egg mixture holds stiff peaks, about 7 minutes. Whisk in vanilla.
  2. Spoon meringue into 6 portions on prepared baking sheet. Use a spoon to shape a “nest” in the centre of each one. Bake for about 1½ hours or until dry. Let cool on a rack.
Lemon Curd and Mixed Citrus
  1. Combine lemon juice and zest, sugar, eggs and egg yolks in a medium pot. Whisk well and whisk in butter. Heat over medium-low, alternating between a whisk and a heatproof spatula, until thickened and just starting to bubble, about 6 minutes.
  2. Transfer lemon curd to a bowl and cover surface. Chill until cold, about 1 hour.
  3. To assemble, place a meringue nest on each plate and fill with lemon curd. Cut off peels from grapefruits and oranges. Slice thinly and serve alongside meringue nests.
Recipe Notes

Nutrients per serving: 268 calories, 4 g protein, 9 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 46 g carbohydrates, 0 g fibre, 142 mg cholesterol, 98 mg sodium.

Tip: To make lemon curd extra-smooth, pour it through a fine mesh sieve before chilling.