There’s nothing like a chilled Summertime smoothie, especially when it’s a hot n’ humid Manhattan day and you’re yearning for something a bit cooling in your dry mouth. And because it’s just simply fun to slurp n’ sip on when the summer heat’s getting to you.

Instead of the traditional smoothie, I decided to get a lil’ bit creative. Refreshing is an understatement, because this smoothie is flavorful, smooth, sweet n’ fun to sip. It makes me wanna move to California and drink smoothies everyday!

I added a fresh n’ ripe avocado just because and a few raw cashews, chia seeds and flax seeds and a nice balance of protein and healthy fats. You can add in or substitute the cashews for another nut but I just love the creaminess in raw cashews. They create such a smooth nut butter consistency, don’t they? There’s just something about soft nuts like cashews n’ peanuts; they always compliment my baked goods, dressings and marinades unlike almonds, which I find hard to get creamy.

This succulent smoothie is hands down one of my top 5 favorites!

Cranberry Coconut Smoothie

Gluten-Free and Vegan

Serves 1

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 10 fresh cherries
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/2 ripe avocado
• 1 large, ripe banana
• 2 Tbsp. ground flax seeds
• 1 cup Soy Yogurt
• 2 fresh Basil leaves
• 1 tsp. chia seeds
• 2 Tbsp. coconut flakes
• 1 tsp. Agave Nectar
• 5 raw cashews
• Dash of cinnamon

Preparation:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender; pulse until smooth.
2. Pour into serving glass; serve chilled.
3. Enjoy!

Cranberry Coconut Smoothie Image Source: Amie Valpone