Also known as the Chinese gooseberry, the kiwi looks like a large, brown egg covered with fine, downy hair. However, this rather unattractive exterior hides a beautiful, brilliantly green flesh sprinkled with tiny, edible black seeds. Its exotic, sweet/tart flavor works equally well in both sweet and savory dishes.

Ripe kiwis can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. The easiest way to peel a kiwi is to first cut off both ends. Insert a small spoon up under the skin, carefully running it all the way around the fruit to separate the flesh from the skin. It can then be easily slipped off without damaging the delicate flesh of the fruit.

CREAMY KIWI DRESSING
3 kiwi, peeled and finely diced (1 cup)
1 banana, mashed
³/4 cup fat-free vanilla yogurt
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
¹/2 teaspoon coconut extract
1. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Refrigerate until cold before serving.

Makes 8 servings.

Each ¹/4-cup serving contains approximately: 53 calories; negligible fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 16 mg sodium; 12 gm carbohydrates; 2 gm protein; 2 gm fiber.