Summer is a great time of year to enjoy a cool, refreshing treat! While there are many options available, they are not all equal when it comes to nutritional value.
For example, frozen ices and popsicles consist of mainly water, sugar, corn syrup and food colorings. They are usually low in protein, vitamins and minerals, but high in empty calories. Real ice cream can be loaded with calories and undesirable fats. Even frozen yogurts and sherbets can contain a large amount of sugar calories, preservatives, added colorings and flavorings.
However, there are other, healthier options available. Patty LaFratta, one of our clinical dietitians and certified specialist in pediatrics, has put together some alternatives that do not require an ice cream machine. For these three recipes you just need a few kitchen items, some wholesome ingredients as well as your endless imagination to alter ingredients to your own taste.
Bon Appetit!
Pineapple Nice Cream
1 16-ounce package of frozen pineapple chunks
1 cup frozen mango chunks or 1 large mango, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice
Put all ingredients in a food processor and blend. Eat right away or freeze for later.
Banana Delight
1½ cups almond milk
2 frozen bananas—peeled and sliced
½ cup frozen strawberries—sliced
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Blend all together, put in a bowl and freeze for several hours. Then, enjoy!
Raspberry-Pistachio Greek Yogurt Bark
1 cup whole milk plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons no sugar added raspberry jam
¼ cup chopped pistachios
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine yogurt, maple syrup/honey and vanilla in a bowl. Spread mixture on baking sheet into a 10 x 15 -inch rectangle. Dot the jam all over the surface and swirl with a knife. Then, sprinkle on the pistachios.
Freeze until firm, then cut into squares before serving.
Check out the other recipes we have on our Bon Secours Blog.
