Before I get to the miracle mango, a few thoughts... Right now, things are winding down after a few particularly busy weeks. We have an appointment tonight, but then the calm sets in, or at least should. Yesterday, we drove to Albany and back for a funeral and when we got home, we were both drained (leftovers for dinner). A little before 8, we sat down on the couch to watch TV and found nothing on, so we decided to watch Food, Inc. from our Netflix online queue.
Food, Inc., is a documentary I'd recommend, but not to the faint of heart. It's a very interesting view of the food industry in America, some of it a bit horrifying. As the film ended, we both questioned our own eating habits. Fortunately we're in far better shape than many others - we cook at home, using fresh ingredients. I eagerly await the summer farmer's market in town to get local produce. But one switch I haven't made is the switch from regular to organic meat. Food, Inc. helped me see just why the switch might be a good one, but even for a middle class couple like us, the price tags are pretty steep. But after watching the film, it's something I'll certainly be investigating further.
I'm sure lots of other foodies have seen the film, so curious what your thoughts are. Have you made the switch? Have you chosen selected organic products to use? Why? Please share your thoughts - I'd love to know.
Back to the mango... My local farm market had fresh mangoes on special for 69 cents so I grabbed a beauty and headed home. I love mango flavor but I've never been a big fan of the fruit on it's own. I decided a hot summer day called for a nice cool smoothie. It was cold, thick and just what the doctor ordered as temps rose into the 90s. One thing I love about smoothies (aside from the freakish power I feel as the blender does its thing) is their adaptability. They're a great way to use extra fruit and there are millions of possible combinations. I've got a pineapple in the fridge that's probably headed the same direction.
Bottom line, this one was delish! My inexpensive little mango became a late morning treat that tasted like a million bucks. Give it a try, or substitute your favorite fruit.
Mango Smoothie
1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted and cubed, preferably cold
About 8-12 ice cubes (mine are small so I used 12)
juice of 1 lime
1/2 cup non-fat vanilla or plain yogurt
Slice of lime and a strawberry to garnish (optional)
Place the ice cubes, mango, lime juice and yogurt in a blender. Blend until smooth. Pour into a tall chilled glass and garnish with lime and strawberry. Serve immediately.
Make 1 large or 2 small smoothies.