The chocolate will stiffen if it gets cold, so enjoy it while it's still warm. Skewer and dip anything you like -- pear slices, dried apricots, even marshmallows.

Chocolate Fondue

Serves 2.

Active Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped

2 tablespoons heavy cream

1 tablespoon brewed espresso (see Kitchen Tip)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

1 banana, peeled and cut into 8 pieces

8 1-inch chunks fresh pineapple

4 strawberries

Place chocolate, cream, espresso, vanilla and salt in a medium microwave-safe bowl; microwave on Medium, stirring every 20 seconds, until melted, 1 to 2 minutes. (Alternatively, see "No Microwave?" below.)

Pour the chocolate mixture into a serving bowl. Serve with fruit.

Recipe Tips and Notes:

Kitchen Tip: If you don't have an espresso maker, look for instant espresso powder at your supermarket.

No Microwave? Place chopped chocolate in the top of a double boiler over hot, but not boiling water. Gently stir until almost melted. Remove from the heat and stir until the chocolate melts completely.

Recipe Nutrition:

Per serving: 347 calories; 19 g fat (10 g sat, 2 g mono); 21 mg cholesterol; 54 g carbohydrate; 4 g protein; 7 g fiber; 81 mg sodium; 377 mg potassium

Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin C (90 percent daily value).

3 Carbohydrate Servings

Exchanges: 2 fruit, 1 carbohydrate (other), 4 fat

(EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com.)