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• The Simply Smoothie

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To celebrate Independence Day, a holiday for the whole family, I present a non-alcoholic treat that can be spiced up for the more spirited celebrants. This recipe for the ‘Simply Smoothie’ has few ingredients and is very easy, which is great when relaxation in the company of friends is a must. All of the ingredients can be bought at any grocery store, and beyond that, you only need a blender or food processor. This drink looks like the smoothie version of a parfait, so it displays its red, white and blue coloration quite well. Think ‘vodka American flag’ instead of tequila sunrise. If the notion of berries and orange juice with an added hint of sweetness sounds good to you, then a Simply Smoothie is just what you need to enjoy the fireworks this year.

Ingredients:
1 lb frozen, mixed summer fruits (partially thawed)
2 tbsp superfine sugar
11/8 cups orange juice (not from concentrate)
4 tbsp light cream

Directions:
Place most of the fruit (leaving mostly fruits with blue and purple hues behind) into a blender or food processor. Add superfine sugar and orange juice. Blend until smooth, adding extra orange juice if the mixture is thicker than desired. Pour the smoothie mixture into approximately ¼ the height of 3 tall glasses. Add a thin layer of cream into each glass, but make sure it is enough to create a visible visual layer. Repeat the last two steps once. Top each glass with the leftover summer fruits, especially blueberries. Enjoy your patriotic concoction and the holiday spirit that ensues.

*To make a drink of the alcoholic variety, add about 2 or 3 ounces of vodka to the smoothie mixture.