Better Frozen Treats by Cari Culp, RD
With temperatures well into the 90’s this week, few things are more refreshing than a nice cold frozen treat.
And as Fourth of July approaches, what is a more American way to celebrate than ice cream? While we may be tempted to indulge in these classic treats with high calories and lesser ingredients; what good are they doing our bodies?
We are all human, so instead of asking Clients to avoid the sweet treats; I challenge them to chose healthier alternatives.
Below are some of my favorite frozen treats, allowing you to stay cool and heathy at the same time.
1. AVOCADO FUDGE POPS:
MAKES 8 SERVINGS
Ingredients:
-8 medjool dates, pitted
½ cup water, or more as needed
3 avocados
1 cup coconut milk
¼ cup raw honey
5 to 7 tablespoons raw cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
Directions:
Place the dates into a blender and add the water. Pack the dates down in the blender jar so they are covered, for the most part, with the water. Let soak for about 30 minutes, then add the avocados, coconut milk, honey, cacao powder, vanilla, and salt and blend until very smooth and creamy. Depending on your blender, you may need to add a little extra coconut milk or water to achieve a smooth blend. 2. Pour the pudding into small bowls and serve, or pour them into molds and freeze for at least for at least 6 hours. Run under hot water to release.
Recipe: Nourishing Meals Cookbook
2. Frozen Yogurt Pops with Fruit AND Veggies
*For each of the following recipes simply blend all ingredients until smooth, pour into molds or these wonderful ice pop pouches and freeze for at least 6 hours.
Apricot Carrot
1 1/2 cups of plain Greek yogurt
1 carrot, peeled and cut
2 apricots
1 tablespoon of honey (or stevia to taste)
Banana-lime Spinach
1 cup of plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup of fresh spinach
juice and zest of one lime
1 banana ( used as the sweetener)
Strawberry-Blueberry Banana Spinach
1 cup of plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup of fresh spinach
3/4 cup of berries ( strawberries and blueberries. any ratio you like)
1 banana ( used as the sweetener)