melon-kale smoothie

Last month I did a cookbook swap, so I've so been busy making new (to me) recipes from Sundays at Moosewood Restaurant and The New Vegetarian Epicure that I haven’t had much time for experimenting with original recipes in my kitchen. However, now that the Farmer’s Market is back in full swing, I have been loading up on so many beautiful, dark, leafy greens that it has been impossible not to get creative with different ways to incorporate these nutrient packed veggies into meals every day.
Greens are so versatile, but one of the easiest ways to get your daily fill is by blending them right up into a smoothie. There are so many great versions of nutritious green drinks, but this Melon-Kale Smoothie may just be my new favorite. The sweet honeydew and frozen green grapes combine for a sorbet-like taste and texture that almost makes you forget how much healthy goodness is packed into your glass. Dark, leafy greens not only contain chlorophyll - which can counteract toxins, cleanse your liver and intestines, build your immune system, increase oxygen flow throughout your body, and even help to prevent cancer – they are also chock-full of vitamin K – which can help prevent heart disease and osteoporosis - vitamin C – which boosts your immune system and has anti-aging effects - and vitamin A – which is essential for maintaining your vision and healthy skin. Cheers to your health!

Melon-Kale Smoothie

1 cup Russian Red Kale*, packed
¼ cup cold Water
1 cup Honeydew Melon, cubed
1 cup frozen Green Grapes
1 tsp Agave (optional)

Combine Kale and Water in a blender and puree until smooth.
Add remaining ingredients and blend to desired consistency.

Makes one big green smoothie filling enough for a meal, or 3 martini-sized smoothies if you want to serve this one up to your friends.

*Of course you can use your favorite greens here, but Russian Red Kale has a particularly sweet, mild flavor that works really well in this smoothie.