Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

After a snowy winter in the northeast, few things are as reassuring as strawberries in spring. Heaps of snow have finally melted to yield lush greens and the promise of succulent seasonal treasures.

For the Filling
 4 large stalks fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1-inch pieces (about 4 cups)
 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
 ½ cup granulated sugar
 1 tablespoon cornstarch
 ½ cup orange juice
 1 teaspoon vanilla
For the Topping
 1 ½ cup oats
 1 cup gluten-free flour mix (or all-purpose flour)
 1 cup ground almonds
 ½ cup ground flaxseed
 1 teaspoon salt
 ½ cup melted coconut oil
 ¾ cup real maple syrup
 1 teaspoon vanilla

1

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Toss the rhubarb and strawberries together in a large bowl with the sugar. In a small cup, mix together the cornstarch and orange juice. Set these both aside while you make the topping.

In a medium bowl, mix the oats, gluten-free flour, ground almonds, flaxseed and salt. Add the melted coconut oil, syrup and vanilla and stir till the dry ingredients are moist and crumbly. Mixture should hold together when pinched between two fingers.

Drain any excess liquid from the fruit, then pour in the orange juice mixture and stir. Empty into an 8-inch square baking dish. Sprinkle the topping over the fruit and place the dish on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, until the fruit is bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden brown. Best served warm.