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MORINGA AND SUMMER BERRY SMOOTHIE



    This super healthy summer berry smoothie made with moringa leaves, flaxseed and chia seeds is a quick and easy way to start your day. It’s a perfect breakfast on-the-go with all it’s essential health benefits.


    Moringa is a plant that is often called drumstick tree or also a miracle tree. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and health benefits. I use moringa leaves in my smoothies, breads, dals, paranthas etc. for that extra boost of essential vitamins. A friend of mine has a large tree growing in her front yard which is my regular supply of moringa leaves.


    Anyone who is deficient in those important vitamins like iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium and zinc etc. must include this in their daily diet, which is a natural way of enhancing those imperative vitamins required in your body.


    This mixed summer berry smoothie is a concoction of lots of hearty ingredients which is quick, delicious and so refreshing that it will help you start your day on a good note. I added flax seeds and chia seeds in it, which is a great way of incorporating these super foods in your diet. Adding a banana to the smoothie will keep you full for a long time.


    I used fresh berries in my smoothie but you can certainly add frozen berries to enjoy it all year around. When the berries are in season they are available in bulk and at cheaper prices. I grab the punnets and freeze the berries in smaller ziplock bags for individuals portions to use later for my desserts, smoothies or jams etc.


    SERVES: 2

    PREP AND MAKING TIME: 8-10 minutes



    INGREDIENTS


    • 2 1/2 cups fresh mixed berries, I used blueberries, raspberries and strawberries

    • 1 tbsp chia seeds

    • 1 tbsp flax seeds

    • 1/4 cup fresh moringa leaves

    • 1 cup Greek yogurt

    • 1 1/2 cups milk

    • 2-3 majdool dates, chopped

    • 1 tsp vanilla

    • 1 tbsp agave syrup or honey

    • 1 cup ice cubes



    METHOD


    1. In a blender, add all the ingredients and blend until smooth.

    2. To serve pour in glasses and garnish with moringa leaves, berries and chia seeds.



    COOK'S NOTES:


    • You can also add bananas to the smoothie which will keep you full for a long time.

    • I used fresh berries but you can certainly use frozen berries when they are not in season.



    SPICED-UP LYCHEE SUMMER COOLER



      This spicy summer cooler is a winner! It smells wonderful and tastes so refreshing. It is an ideal drink to sip on a hot summer evening. If you are thinking of entertaining your friends, this cooler will be destined to be a party favourite.


      This Spiced-up lychee drink with a hint of lemongrass and ginger has a subtle flavor of bird’s eye chili which cuts through the sweetness of this ravishing summer cooler...spike it up with vodka or gin and you are all set for a hot summer weekend evening... It is definitely a crowd pleaser.


      I made this drink for my girl's night and they were all rock and roll over this boozy refresher.


      Omit the booze if you have some young adults or children coming to the party. Spike it separately if you so desire.


      You are all set for your next party! Cheers!

      YIELDS: 1 pitcher

      PREP TIME: 15 minutes

      MAKING TIME: 5 minutes



      INGREDIENTS

      • 1 ltr lychee juice, fresh or from tetra pack

      • 500 ml soda water

      • 1/2 cup sugar syrup

      • 3 birds eye chili whole, lightly bruised

      • 2 lime juiced, reserve skins

      • 3” piece ginger, smashed

      • 8 oz Gin/ Vodka (optional)

      • 8-10 fresh lychees, peeled, some cut in half and muddled

      • 2 lemongrass sticks, bruised from ends

      • Few ice cubes



      METHOD

      1. Drop all the ingredients in a large pitcher, give it a good stir. Leave it the fridge until you serve. Let all ingredients infuse.

      2. Drop couple of ice cubes in a glass. Pour the prepared drink and garnish with a chili and fresh lychee in a skewer on top.



      COOK'S NOTES:

      • You can prepare this ahead of time in the fridge without adding ice in it.

      • If making for children or you just don't like alcohol, omit gin and vodka from the drink.

      • If you like it a bit more strong, add some extra booze.



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