Serve this zesty, nutmeg-kissed lemon dessert sauce over gingerbread, pound cake, ice cream or fruit.

Lemon-Nutmeg Sauce

1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup half-and-half
1 large egg yolk
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
1/8 teaspoon yellow food coloring (optional)

1. In a microwave-safe dish combine sugar, cornstarch, and nutmeg. Blend in half-and-half, egg yolk, lemon juice, grated lemon peel, and yellow food coloring (if using). Microwave on high for 3 minutes or until thickened, stirring once.

Makes scant 1 cup.