Strawberry and Rice Pudding

Description
Makes 8 servings.

Ingredients

 * 1 quart fresh strawberries, washed and stemmed
 * 3/4 cup sugar, divided
 * 1 lime
 * 3/4 cup uncooked rice
 * 1 quart milk
 * 1/2 teaspoon salt
 * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
 * 2 tablespoons rum or 1 teaspoon rum extract (optional)
 * 2 cups whipping cream, whipped, divided

Directions

 * 1) Slice strawberries, reserving 8 for garnish.
 * 2) Sprinkle sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar and juice from lime. Set aside.
 * 3) Bring rice, milk, salt and remaining 1/2 cup sugar to a boil in heavy saucepan.
 * 4) Stir once or twice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 25 minutes, stirring, or until rice is tender and milk is almost absorbed.
 * 5) Add vanilla and rum. Cool.
 * 6) Fold in sliced strawberries and 1-1/2 cups whipped cream.
 * 7) Spoon pudding into serving dishes.
 * 8) Top each with reserved whipped cream and a strawberry.