Kale Smoothie a.k.a. “Seuss Juice”

If I could find a way to make doing laundry about farting, my children would do the laundry and guffaw the entire time.  I would never have to do another load myself. If unloading the dishwasher could be reasonably linked with space ships or ninjas, it would be gleefully done by my children, too. Hence, when I spied my bedraggled kale plant that was about to bloom out, and wanted to feed it to my children in smoothie form, I knew that if I didn’t find an appropriate “hook” I would be up a creek with a gallon of green health food. Turning my mind to the master of selling green things, the name “Seuss Juice” popped into my head. Lo and behold, two children sat at my dining room table and guzzled 12 ounces each of drink made with over two packed cups of chopped kale.

My children aren’t stupid. They then asked me to tell them what was in it and I did. But the heavy lifting was complete and they were hooked. We have had kale smoothies every day since. I know that kale seems to be becoming a bit cliché. However, I think that it will have longevity because it is inexpensive, easy to grow, packed with vitamins, and good. So perhaps it isn’t so much cliché as getting its well deserved due.

Even if you don’t have to hoodwink the young, do try this. It is a darned good way to pack some green goodness into your day. And, you can’t tell by looking at it, but this drink is sweet and fruity with nary a hint of broc-o-cabbagey-cruciferousness. It is just sweet and tasty.

Preparation: 3 to 4 servings
2 packed cups of coarsely chopped fresh kale
1 medium apple, skin on, cored and roughly chopped
1 banana, peeled
8 ounces apple juice
2 tablespoons honey

Optional: substitute 6 to 8 strawberries (greens on) for the apple. Also, feel free to throw in a few chunks of pineapple with the strawberries.

Put it in a blender and push go! When the fruits and vegetables are well liquefied, add a cup of ice cubes and blend them in, as well. Serve immediately. My kids like this as more of a juice than a smoothie. If you like a thicker consistency, consider freezing the banana and strawberry ahead of time. Also, feel free to add more honey if you find it is not sweet enough.