Most Popular Articles

Capture Summer Flavors

There is nothing more tantalizing than the sweet tastes of summer's harvest, especially the abundance of juicy, colorful berries bursting with flavor that line the shelves of local grocery stores and farmer markets. Whether eaten as a treat or used in a main dish, ripe summer fruit provides endless possibilities.

Smoothies are a great way to enjoy the delicious flavors of summer without spending hours in the kitchen. With a little creativity, a blender, and some fresh ingredients, you can whip up a healthy, refreshing meal that is sure to please the whole family.

Bob Greene, Oprah's personal trainer, serves up breakfast smoothies in his bestselling book "The Best Life Diet," and on the companion website, TheBestLife.com.

"Breakfast is non-negotiable on my plan, and all my breakfasts offer a healthy balance of protein, high fiber carbs, and healthy fat to keep you satisfied for hours," says Greene. Pasteurized liquid egg whites, such as the all-natural AllWhites brand are a safe and convenient way to add high quality protein to breakfast, whether blended into a smoothie or cooked on the griddle.

In this recipe, which takes just six minutes to prepare, the light, fresh flavor of the Strawberry Summer Smoothie is created by combining ripe, sweet strawberries and fresh basil with liquid egg whites.

"Strawberries are high in vitamin C and potassium and are a great source of dietary fiber," says Greene. "When mixed with egg whites, you'll have a fat-free, cholesterol-free, protein-packed drink that will keep you satisfied."

For the best flavor, use fruit that is in peak season. For more summer smoothie recipes like Mango Peach, Blueberry Pomegranate and Raspberry Peach Lemonade, visit www.betterneggs.com.

Strawberry Summer Smoothie
1 serving (16 ounces)
Prep Time: 6 minutes

1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved

1 cup ice cubes

2/3 cup liquid egg whites

2 teaspoons fresh basil or fresh mint, chopped

Combine all ingredients in blender. Cover and blend on medium speed until smooth.

Serve immediately.

Tip: If berries aren't quite sweet enough, add 1 to 2 teaspoons brown sugar to desired sweetness

Nutritional Information Per Serving:

Serving Size: 16 ounces

Calories 160; Calories from Fat 0

% Daily Value

Total Fat 0g 0%

Saturated Fat 0g 0%

Cholesterol 0mg 0%

Sodium 260mg 10%

Total Carbohydrate 24g 8%

Dietary Fiber 6g 22%

Sugars 12g

Protein 18g

Vitamin A 4% Vitamin C 260%

Calcium 4% Iron 8%

Source: Michaels Foods