Fig, Kale, & Almond Smoothie

Good Morning! It was about time I share a smoothie recipe…it’s just been salad city around here! I am back to work this week, & with early mornings & a busy schedule, I need something quick, easy & nourishing that I can pour in a mason jar & drink on the go. My friend gave me some delicious figs from her tree & I decided to add them last minute to my favorite basic kale & almond smoothie. The result was rich, creamy deliciousness!

One of the most delightful delicacies of summer is a beautiful fresh fig. As they are elusive for most of the year, I always get excited when they begin to appear at the farmers’ market or in the produce department. Figs are lusciously sweet & an absolutely gorgeous hue on the inside. I am really attracted to colorful foods & figs are one of the most vibrant fruits around. Nutritionally, figs are an excellent source of potassium (a mineral that helps to control blood pressure), dietary fiber, phytonutrients, antioxidants & vitamins A, E, & K. What a sweet & summery gift from mother nature.

There are many ways to enjoy a fig beyond the iconic “Newton” cookie. Fresh summer figs make a beautiful accouterment on a vegan cheese plate, are lovely tossed into a green salad, delicious sliced over a bowl of oatmeal, tasty atop flatbread with greens & vegan “goat” cheese, & perfectly wonderful on their own too. I’d never thought to add them to a green smoothie & so glad the mood finally struck me.

FIG, KALE & ALMOND SMOOTHIE Author: Melissa, Honey Bee Vegan Recipe type: Smoothie, Breakfast

Cuisine: Vegan Serves: 1 INGREDIENTS

• 1 packed cup chopped kale leaves

• 1 cup almond milk (homemade is richer)

• 4-5 fresh figs

• ½ frozen banana

• 1 Tbsp soaked raw almonds

• 1 date, pitted (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Blend all ingredients in a powerful blender until completely smooth. Drink Immediately.

Enjoy!