If you want a show-stopping dessert and one that is also delicious, this is the one. Not only is it relatively easy to make, but no one will believe that you made it yourself! Also, feel free to use whatever fruits are your favorite or whatever you have on-hand. You can’t go wrong.

TART PASTRY
1 1/2 cups flour (do not use self-rising)
1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted & finely ground
1/4 cup, packed light or dark brown sugar
2/3 cup butter, softened
1 egg

PASTRY DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 400º
Combine all ingredients in a food processor, until a ball forms. Although I use a food processor for this, you could just as easily use a mixer. Press the dough firmly and evenly against the bottom and sides of a 9″ or 10″ tart pan, with removable bottom. Then poke it all over, with a fork; this prevents it from puffing up while cooking. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until light brown. Set aside to cool.

LEMON FILLING & FRUIT
1/2 cup lemon curd, Trader Joe’s is a good one
8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
pint of strawberries
large handful of blueberries
3-4 kiwis, depending on their size

FILLING DIRECTIONS
While the crust is baking, beat the lemon curd and cream cheese, until very smooth. Then, spread evenly over the cooled crust and chill for about an hour or until firm. Arrange a selection of berries and sliced fruit over the lemon mixture. My favorite combination is strawberries, kiwi, and blueberries, for both flavor and color combination. However, you can certainly try any combination you prefer.

GLAZE
2 Tbs. apricot jam, jelly or preserves
1-2 tsp. water

Heat the jam and water in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds until melted, mix well, and brush over the fruit. You don’t need to go heavy with this, just a light coating will do. The jam glaze gives the fruit a nice, shiny, professional look. Alternatively, you could just use a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar. However, the shine that the glaze imparts really does makes it look professionally done.