In-Season Recipe: Summer Fruit and Vegetable Smoothies

Whether you need a delicious, cold beverage to sip while you sit by the pool on a hot summer day or you need something refreshing to cool you down after hours of hard work in the garden, smoothies are a simple, satisfying treat. I also love how a handful of greens such as spinach or kale can add a punch of nutrition without overpowering the flavors of the sweet fruits.

Many people think of bananas and berries when they think of smoothies. In my kitchen, the possibilities are endless. I recommend using seasonal fruits whenever possible or frozen fruit you’ve frozen yourself when it was at it’s peak flavor and freshness. Peaches and plums are some of my favorite smoothie additions that seem to be less common in smoothies recipes. During peak season their flavors are simply amazing. You may also notice when you use local, fresh fruit at it’s peak ripeness it may taste much sweeter which means you’ll have a great tasting smoothie without the need for any added sugar.

Smoothies are a great way to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables without lots of prep-work and cooking in a hot kitchen. Kids love smoothies too and it’s an especially great way to get picky kids to eat their spinach!