Fruit smoothies and drinks have joined the menu at many coffee shops and quick serve restaurants.  Manufacturers have also joined the bandwagon with many bottled or frozen mixes on grocery store shelves.  It is no wonder they are so popular, they are a great way to get fruits into your and children’s diet.

When smoothies are made with dairy products and fruit like those at Panera, Starbucks, McDonalds, etc., they are a fabulous snack because they add calcium, vitamin C, vitamin A, protein, and fiber to your diet. However, be sure to read the nutrition information.

Purchased smoothies often cost $2.00-$3.00 per serving.  You can make your own for a fraction of the cost especially if you buy fruits in season.  Our Fruitastic Summer Smoothie Blast is around $.75 per serving.  It is made with strawberries, banana, and strawberry yogurt. Almost any combination of fruit and yogurt will work (eg. banana-peach, mango-berry).

Fruitastic Summer Smoothie Blast

Ingredients:
½ banana
½ cup frozen berries
1 (6-ounce) container strawberry yogurt

Directions:
Blend all ingredients well in blender.
Pour into your favorite glass and enjoy!

TIP: Smoothies are a great way to use over-ripe fruit