i'd rather be baking

Are you ready for spring yet? Me too! We had one delicious day of fifty-degree weather this week followed by several days of upper thirties and sunshine — which means that for the first time since October, there’s no snow on the ground! It feels like spring should surely be coming, but I know it isn’t.

That doesn’t stop me from enjoying the sunshine and hoping for a little more of it! Plus I know I need more vitamin C and all that other good stuff in fruit, so…is that enough reasons for a smoothie yet?

I like smoothies post-workout and sometimes for breakfast. But really, they’re a great snack any time. The possibilities are endless in terms of flavors. You can (and should) use any kind of fruit you like or just have on hand. I rely on a basic “recipe” for proportions, but really don’t measure anything. Just throw it all in the blender until you get the flavor and texture that you like! And I honestly don’t worry about how much sugar is involved in fruit — God made fruit good for us for a reason!

My Favorite Smoothie

I like to use frozen fruit instead of ice, because it contributes that texture you’re looking for without watering down the taste. You can freeze fresh fruit in the summer or buy any kind you like at the grocery store. I love to keep those big bags of mixed frozen fruit on hand for when smoothie cravings strike.

Makes 1 large smoothie

1 cup frozen fruit of your choice (today I used cantaloupe and pineapple)
1/2 cup fresh fruit (today I used blueberries)
1/2 cup low- or non-fat yogurt (I like vanilla)
about 1/4 cup liquid – milk or juice
1 tablespoon flaxseed (optional)

Combine all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth. Add a little more liquid if needed. Enjoy!