Few things in life are as good as biting into a sweet, ripe, plump strawberry.
California benefits from having a long strawberry season that spans 7-9 months. And strawberries are known for their delicious source of nutrition and sweet taste.
As a child I remember when my mother would bring home crates of brightly colored strawberries with fresh-looking green leaves from the grocery store where she worked. I could easily polish off nearly an entire crate all by myself!
Strawberries are best eaten fresh, but they make great additions to many recipes, including deserts, salads and side dishes.
So when California Strawberries contacted me about doing this blog post, I had visions of those crates all over my kitchen. While I couldn’t find them in the store – I did manage to track down a package or two.
If you find your local store is out of fresh supply, feel free to use an unsweetened frozen variety. They work just as well here.
TODAY’S RECIPE
California Strawberries had this original version of the recipe to share: Spicy Sweet California Strawberry Tonic. But since it’s not clean, I modified it and I think you will LOVE the taste! Here is my version of their yummy recipe.
Clean Eating Spicy Sweet California Strawberry Smoothie
(Makes 2 servings)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound California strawberries, hulled (unsweetened if frozen)
- 1/2 medium cucumber, peeled and coarsely chopped
- 1 small Roma tomato
- 1/2 cup light coconut milk
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 cups ice (If using fresh strawberries. Omit if using frozen strawberries)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (or to taste – I used more!)
- Honey to taste
- Dash of salt
- Lime slices for garnish
- California strawberries for garnish
Directions:
- Place all ingredients in your blender and blend until smooth.
- Season to taste with cayenne, honey and salt.
- Garnish and serve.
DISCLOSURE STATEMENT: This is a sponsored post. I was paid to create this recipe. All opinions are my own.
kristyn says
Wow, that looks and sounds amazing. I can’t wait to try it.
The Gracious Pantry says
Kristyn – I hope you enjoy it! 🙂
lisa says
I love strawberries in smoothies even more, since I found out that the leafs are actually very healthy and can be left on them!
cheers, lisa
The Gracious Pantry says
Lisa – Really! I had no idea!