Keeping Cool with Homemade Popsicles

As the sun shines and temperatures rise, the world around us seems to come alive. It is such a joy to watch flowers bloom, leaves burst forth, birds sing and people spending more time outdoors. With temperatures in the 70's and 80's, thoughts turn toward ways to keep cool.

Smoothies and popsicles are two of my favorite ways to accomplish this. I love making my Best Chocolate Shake Ever (or another variation), green smoothies with frozen fruit, and popsicles made with fresh juices and left over smoothies.

Remember, that green smoothies are a quick, effective way to get a super charged portion of nutrients and amino acids in a simple blended drink. There are lots of smoothie recipes on this blog; just search the "smoothie" label to locate them. My smoothie today was one I just threw together with ingredients on hand. With the leftover smoothie, I decided to make a few popsicles for a nutritious snack. Popsicles are a great kid pleaser too, and a sneaky way to introduce green smoothies and other healthy alternatives.

Banana Strawberry Smoothie
Ingredients:
1 banana
1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
1 orange
6-8 oz. of water (I used some water kefir flavored with strawberries for part of the liquid)
2 cups kale leaves, ripped into pieces with stems removed
1/4 cup canned organic coconut milk (this is thicker and creamier than the coconut milk in cartons)

Put all ingredients into the blender in order and blend until smooth.