Green Smoothie

What You Need:

• 2 cups vanilla low-fat ice cream or frozen yogurt
• 4 to 6 tablespoons Green Juice (see recipe below)
• 1/4 cup low fat milk
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

What You Do:

1. Start with the lesser amount of juice called for, and work up to more over time.
2. Blend all ingredients together in a blender until smooth.
3. Serve in tall glasses with a quick squirt of whipped cream and a straw.

Nutrition Highlights: Calcium and vegetables Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, manganese, folate, iron, calcium, and protein

Make-Ahead Recipe: Green Juice

This makes about 1 cup of Green juice. Double the recipe if you want to store another cup of juice.

What You Need:

• 3 cups raw baby spinach leaves (or 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, or frozen chopped collard greens)
• 1 cup water (If using raw spinach, thoroughly wash it, even if the package says “ pre-washed.”)

What You Do:

1. Bring spinach or collards and water to boil in a medium pot.
2. Turn heat to low and allow to simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pour into a fine mesh strainer over a container or bowl, pressing the green “pulp” with the back of a spoon until all the liquid is released.
4. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze 1/4 cup portions in sealed plastic bags or small plastic containers.