When you see strawberries
Make this hearty smoothie.
When I get my hands on good strawberries, it’s genuinely challenging to do more with them than give a quick rinse before devouring. While they do make a stunning galette, there’s honestly nothing that compares the floral freshness of a raw, spring strawberry eaten plain.
Of course, a pound of strawberries is going to cost a few solid dollars (possibly double digits depending on just how good they are), so when I can turn them into a meal, I do. Enter: this smoothie. Wow, BORING! half of you just shouted. Sorry, I am a smoothie girl! On sweltering mornings, I cannot possible stomach hot oatmeal, and there’s only so many bowls of yogurt and muesli one can eat in a row. But what if those oats and yogurt—admittedly hearty, affordable breakfast options—found their way into a smoothie that just tastes like ripe strawberries? Are you listening now?
PSA: If you find good strawberries on sale while they’re in season, stock up and freeze them. Line a sheet pan with parchment and set rinsed, dried, and stemmed berries (halved if larger than 1 inch) on the parchment without touching. Freeze until solid, about 2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container. They work great in the smoothie too.
Speaking of things that are pink: I was on the TASTE podcast talking about my book (…the cover of which is pink….) Please give it a listen and forgive me for saying “like” so much. Anyway!
Many thanks to FreshDirect for assisting with groceries! Their service has gotten me through countless recipes. Use code REBECCAFIRKSER50 for $50 off your first $99 order.
Strawberry, Banana, and Oat Smoothie
Serves 1, easily multiplied
If you hate banana, use frozen cauliflower for a more neutral flavor, it still bulks the volume and adds creaminess to the drink.
Ingredients
5 ounces fresh or frozen strawberries
½ cup plain full-fat yogurt (Greek or any whole milk variety)
½ large (2 to 3 ounces) frozen banana
¼ cup rolled oats
¼ teaspoon cardamom
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Big pinch salt
Ice cubes or water, as needed
Method
In a blender, combine all of the ingredients (if using fresh strawberries, add a couple ice cubes; if using frozen, add a splash of water). Blend until smooth. Drink immediately!
I'm so jealous of your cup / dish collection
also, a smoothie girl and also, love adding oats to mine as an oatmeal hater