Hellobee

Have you seen the cupcakes that look like hamburgers? Or brownies that look like steak? Definitely not my thing. Food disguised as other food is actually a little off-putting to me. Maybe off-putting is a strong word, more like…strange. So, while we often eat green smoothies, I’ve always found it a little strange that they don’t taste “green.” To remedy this (okay, mostly just for fun), I came up with a couple smoothie recipes that match their color to a related flavor.

The first is a vibrant citrus and basil smoothie, with sweet orange and tart lime. Herbaceous basil kicks the refreshment up another notch in this vitamin-packed beverage. This was exactly what Zane and I craved after three weeks of on and off illness.

The second is a creamy mint smoothie, a slightly sweet and satisfying afternoon snack. You can inch it closer to dessert territory with the optional addition of dark chocolate chips.

Okay, so both smoothies still contain a stealthy dose of fresh spinach, but at least the color is representative of the flavor. Also, they are both Zane- and mama-tested and approved!

1 c ice
1 orange, peeled
1/2 lime, juice and zest
1 c chopped, loosely packed spinach
1/4 c loosely packed basil

Add all ingredients to a blender and process on high until smooth.

Serves 2

Mint (Chocolate Chip) Smoothie

1/2 c ice
1 c chopped, loosely packed spinach
1/2 c loosely packed mint leaves
1 c coconut milk
1/4 c semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips (optional)

Add all ingredients except the chocolate chips to a blender and process on high until smooth. If using the chocolate chips, add at the end and blend until broken into medium or small flecks.

Serves 2

Do you have a favorite green smoothie recipe?