By Lynne Young, CHC
Strawberry season starts early in the south, so for me it’s a wonderful sign that the warm weather and summer fun is ready to begin! Our bodies naturally crave cooling, seasonal fruits and veggies during this time to keep us feeling comfortable during those hot afternoons at work or play. I love all the choices strawberries offer, ranging from drinks, snacks, salads (slice the strawberries & add to salad with a Balsamic vinaigrette dressing for a cool and refreshing twist) , salsa, and anything else your imagination and kitchen talents can whip up. If you’re not convinced by the yummy recipe below, check out the many health benefits for both adults and kids!
Strawberries are not just the delcious, refreshing snack that everyone loves in the spring and early summer months. They are packed with fiber, vitamin C, and magnesium to help with a healthy balance of nutrients for the added summer activities. As if this wasn’t enough, they have a high content of antioxidants and nutrients that have been known to naturally have positive effects on the immune system as well as blood pressure, arthritis, eye care, and more. Now for recipes the whole family can enjoy!
Fruity drinks and ice pops are popular choices when kids (and adults) need to cool down. Buying healthy versions in the store can be challenging when trying to avoid high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors and flavorings, and other additives. So what other options are there? Create your own icy, slush drink, or frozen ice pops with fresh berries and fruit. Sound challenging; what if I told you it only takes a total of 10-15 minutes!
Here is a favorite combination of mine during strawberry season that I enjoyed for years in my juicer, but using the whole fruit in the blender gives the added benefits of the fruits fiber. If making a cooler (drink) try garnishing with a whole strawberry and spearmint leaves, and for ice pops, try adding slices of strawberries in the pops to make it more fun and tasty!
Strawberry & Cantaloupe Cooler
Ingredients
1 Cantaloupe (whole, organic preferred)
2 cups Strawberries (hulled & cleaned/fresh or frozen)
1 sprig of spearmint leaves (optional for drink garnish)
Directions
- Cut the melon in half, remove the seeds and cut the melon from the skin, cutting in chunks.
- Put in high speed blender (like a Vitamix) (juice included) along with cleaned and hulled strawberries.
- Blend on ‘high’ for about 1 minute until it turns to juice. If the melon is a little dry or you are not using a high speed blender, a little water may be added to get the right consistency.
Options: Ice can be added during blending to make a smoothie or slush cooler. Another option is to place in ice pop trays and freeze for a delicious frozen fruity snack.
http://vegweb.com/recipes/cantaloupe-strawberry-cooler
