Mixed Fruit and Veg Smoothie

It’s been getting warmer here in Los Angeles this week, and with the change in temperature, I’ve begun to feel less like eating soups and stews, and more like making salads and smoothies. Now, I realise that the sun isn’t shining everywhere but perhaps making this will help you to pretend that it is. Or not. Anyway, it’s a lovely recipe and should help to make you feel great whatever the weather.

Although I enjoy all kinds of smoothies, this is one of my favourites. It makes a really nice change from fruit-only versions, and the combination of cucumber, lime and mint means that it’s incredibly refreshing. The banana and kiwi not only add texture, but also natural sweetness, which can sometimes be lacking in some of the more ‘green’ smoothies (of course, the teaspoon of honey helps here too).

And as well as being incredibly quick and easy to make, it’s a great source of several vitamins and minerals, and makes an excellent accompaniment to your breakfast or lunch.

Recipe: Mixed Fruit and Veg Smoothie

Ingredients

150g (5 oz) cucumber, cut into large pieces

150ml good quality (unsweetened) apple juice

1-2 tsp honey (to taste)

1 ripe banana, sliced

A handful of mint leaves

Juice of 1 lime

10-12 ice-cubes

2 kiwi fruit, peeled and finely chopped

Serves 2-3

Method

Place all of the ingredients, except the kiwi fruit, into a blender and whizz until smooth.

Add the kiwi, and blend for just a few more seconds.

Pour into glasses and serve.