Kid Taste Tested & Approved Smoothies!

Looking for some fun and simple ways to sneak in some added nutrition for your growing (and possibly picky) kids? Smoothies are a perfect food for kids of all ages, not only because they're yummy and nutritious, but they are also super fun to make together! 

The following recipes are adapted from the "Kid-Licious" chapter in the wonderful book "Super-Charged Smoothies" by Mary Corpening Barber and Sara Corpening Whiteford. Each of these recipes had to pass Mary and Sara's kids taste test, so if they didn't like it, you will not find the recipe in their book! 

Sassy Strawberry Granola Crunch

This yummy concoction has lots of presentation options - pulse the granola into this smoothie or stir it in for a crispy effect. It could also be served in a bowl with the granola sprinkled on top and garnished with some fresh strawberries!

• 3/4 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
• 1/2 cup fresh-pressed apple juice
• 1 1/4 cup frozen strawberries
• 1 frozen banana, sliced
• 1/2 cup sprouted live organic granola 

Combine the yogurt and apple juice in a blender. Add the strawberries and banana. Blend until smooth. Pulse and stir in 1/2 cup granola until incorporated. Add more granola if you like. Serves 2. 

Orange Julia

The whey protein and nonfat dry milk make this drink delectably creamy, while adding a healthy dose of protein and calcium to help support overall growth and bone health. This smoothie also boasts a host of antioxidants!

• 1 1/4 cups orange segments with their juice
• 3/4  tangerine sorbet
• 4 to 6 ice cubes
• 1/4 cup whey protein powder
• 3 tbs nonfat dry milk powder

Combine the oranges and their juice, the sorbet, 2 tsp lemon juice and ice in a blender. Blend until smooth. Pulse the whey protein and milk powders. Taste and add more lemon juice, if you like. Serves 2.

Pink-A-Licious

Not only are nuts a terrific source of protein, they also decrease the risk of heart disease! You can sneak a handful of nuts into all kinds of smoothies and it gives it a creamy pudding-like texture - yum!

• 1/2 cup fresh pressed apple juice
• 1/2 cup raw unsalted cashews
• 1 fresh ripe banana
• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup frozen strawberries

Combine the apple juice, cashews and banana in a blender. Add the raspberries and strawberries and blend until smooth. Serves 2.