Rice 'n' Strawberry Pudding

Description
Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

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

Directions
Slice strawberries, reserving 8 for garnish. Sprinkle sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar and juice from lime. Set aside.

Bring rice, salt, milk and remaining 1/2 cup sugar to boil in heavy saucepan with tight-fitting lid. Stir once or twice, reduce heat; cover, and simmer 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and milk is almost absorbed. Add vanilla and rum. Cool to room temperature. Fold in whipped cream, reserving 1/2 cup for garnish.

Spoon pudding into serving dishes. Top each with sliced strawberries, a dollop of whipped cream and a strawberry.