When you get knee-deep into the hot, humid days of summer, sometimes a well-prepared meal goes out the window. After all, you’re busy tending the bumper crop that has swelled in your garden, and the warm temperatures do nothing to conjure up an appetite. But don’t overlook your body’s nutritional and hydration needs—especially when so many delicious fruits and vegetables are in season.
A highlight of the summer growing season is the crop of sweet melons in our gardens. Melons offer a refreshing flavor and essential fluids perfect for replacing those you’ve undeniably lost while sweating out in the sun. Add melons to a summertime smoothie that you can drink for breakfast, lunch or even an easy dinner. Paired with yogurt for some protein and coconut milk for a boost in hydration, a melon smoothie is the perfect summer treat—and it’s healthy, too.
Yield: 1 large smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped cantaloupe
- 1/2 cup honey-flavored yogurt (or 1/2 cup plain yogurt plus 1 tsp. honey)
- 1/2 cup light coconut milk (or substitute 1/2 cup of cow’s, goat’s or sheep’s milk)
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1 T. shredded unsweetened coconut, toasted
Preparation
Purée cantaloupe, yogurt and coconut milk in blender until smooth, 20 to 30 seconds. Add ice and purée until blended, about 15 more seconds. Pour smoothie into large glass and top with toasted coconut before serving.
