Recently a large portion of Oregon has experienced a climate of HOT HOT HOT! For me this brings to mind using smoothies to beat the heat. Smoothies come in all types and flavors and can be consumed year around. Basic varieties include fruit such as berries, bananas and oranges; ice cream and yogurt preparations, and others that are vegetable oriented.
Consider using cold refreshing mixes for when the weather is hot and the converse when the temperatures plummet. Potentially, smoothies can represent a meal that can become a treat in the middle of the day; even healthy blender concoctions can be made to taste like dessert, creating a win – win for mom and kids. It is also a great way to salvage uneaten fruit before they over ripen. Simply prepare the fruit as you would prior to eating, i.e. peel the banana, then seal tightly in a Ziploc bag and toss into the freezer for later use. Now you have even an easier and healthier way to create a frozen drink because the fruit replaces ice cubes when blending!
Blenderized soups can be easily made by using blanched, roasted or sautéed vegetables. To make this, simply toss your vegetables into a blender. Add some fresh herbs and spices and enough liquid, such as stock, to create the blended consistency you desire. If a hot beverage or meal is desired, simply pour your creation into a glass mug, microwave and enjoy! What a quick, healthy and tasty way to appreciate seasonal produce any time of the year.
Advantages of smoothies are that they can be a packed with nutrition, quick and easy to make and are a low cost portable meal that tastes great. Depending on ingredients, they can be rich sources of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein.
Food choices are endless when making a blended drink or meal. Here are a few ideas to get you started; then mix and match to your liking:
- Berries – strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries
- Fruits – peaches, mangos, bananas, apples, pears, cherries, coconut
- Vegetables – spinach, cucumbers, kale, tomatoes, carrots
- Dairy – skim milk, low fat ice cream or yogurt
- Flavor enhancers – fresh mint, dark chocolate, vanilla, almond/soy milk, sorbet
The fun in creating smoothies is that there are no rules. Experiment with different combinations of ingredients until you find the ones you like. Get the kids involved and have a friendly competition as to who can make the most tasty and nutritious blenderized concoction!
Need more ideas? Click here for 50 great smoothie recipes!
