Originally from China, the apricots’ were found to thrive in the California climate when Spanish missions were established in the late 1700’s. With the season just beginning, this is the perfect time to take advantage of what the apricot brings – fiber, potassium and the powerful antioxidants Vitamins A & C, and the cartenoid Lycopene. Adding flax seed to the recipe provides Omega-3 which makes this delicious smoothie an even better eye-healthy way to start the day.
What you’ll need to serve 2:
6 fresh apricots -medium size, pitted (about ? pounds)*see note if using dried
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
1 cup plain kefir or yogurt
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
2-4 ice cubes
What you’ll do: Place all of the ingredients in a blender. Blend on high speed until completely smooth. Divide into two glasses and serve right away. Enjoy.
*You can use dried apricots with a few more instructions: (Purchase organic dried to avoid sulfites.) Begin the night before by pouring 2 cups boiling water over a cup of quartered dried apricots. In the morning, place the reconstituted apricots and remaining liquid in a blender and process until pureed. Add remaining ingredients and blend until completely smooth. Add more orange juice or water if it is too thick.
Thoughts and variations: Try using mandarin or blood orange juice; substitute almond extract for the vanilla; substitute a vanilla yogurt for the plain; add a banana.
