Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Cherry Mash Smoothie

Peaches and Creamsicle Smoothie, Cherry Mash Smoothie, Basic Green Smoothie

Today is National Cherry Pie Day! According to English legend, Queen Elizabeth I "invented" the cherry pie, although it's pretty unlikely that she spent very much time in the kitchen. Before the English began filling pies with cherries, fruit pies were were usually made with pears, apples and quinces.

In American lore, cherries are often associated with George Washington and the famous "I cannot tell a lie" story involving him chopping down a cherry tree as a child. Since Washington's birthday falls in February, it's fitting that National Cherry Pie Day also falls in the same month. 

For a twist on the traditional baked pie, how about celebrating today with a raw cherry smoothie? This Cherry Mash Smoothie is from Amber Shea Crawley's Practically Raw, and is sure to satisfy your desire for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
  • 1 frozen ripe banana, broken into chunks
  • 1 1/4 cups almond milk 
  • 1 cup pitted fresh or frozen cherries
  • 
2 tablespoons coconut butter
  • 2 pitted dates (optional)
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until very smooth. Add a few ice cubes and blend again if a colder smoothie or thicker texture is desired. Serve immediately.

Yield about 2 1/2 cups

From Practically Raw by Amber Shea Crawley. ©2012 Amber Shea Crawley. Used by permission from Vegan Heritage Press. 
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