Summer Blender: Smooth, Refreshing Beverages

Photo, above: Breakfast in a Glass

As the summer starts to sizzle, there’s no better way to keep cool than with smooth, refreshing beverages. Not only are they great to combat the sweltering temperature, a rich, frothy and fruity blend will dazzle friends and family alike. So reach for the blender, whip up some of these tasty concoctions, and get out on the patio and enjoy summer the way it should be: with a cold drink in your hand.

Cran-Pineapple Colada
1 1/2 cups (355 ml) cran-apple juice
1 cup (250 ml) fresh pineapple chunks
2/3 cup (178 ml) frozen piña colada drink mix
1 ripe banana, cut into pieces
2 cups (500 ml) ice cubes
In blender jar, combine all ingredients close with lid. PULSE several times for about 5 seconds each time to blend ingredients and crush ice. Press LIQUEFY and blend until smooth and creamy; about 25 seconds. Serve immediately. Makes about 3 1/2 cups (828 ml).

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Mango Raspberry Fizz
1 1/2 cups (355 ml) pineapple mango juice
1 1/2 cups (355 ml) raspberry sorbet
1 cup (250 ml) frozen sliced peaches
Cold club soda
Mint sprigs
Combine first 3 ingredients in blender jar. Close cover. PULSE for several seconds, three to four times. Press SMOOTHIE and let run until mixture is smooth and well blended; about 30 seconds. Fill tall beverage glasses half-full with raspberry mixture; top off with club soda. Stir to blend. Garnish with mint sprig. Makes 4 to 6 drinks.

Breakfast in a Glass
1 cup (250 ml) milk
1/2 cup (125 ml) plain yogurt
1 banana, cut into pieces
1/2 cup (125 ml) creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup (60 ml) wheat germ
1/4 cup (60 ml) peanuts
1 tbsp. (15 ml) honey
2 cups (500 ml) ice cubes
In blender jar, combine all ingredients in order listed. Place cover on jar. Press PULSE several times for about 5 seconds each time to blend ingredients and begin crushing ice.
Blend until mixture is smooth and well blended (about 30 seconds). Makes about 4 1/2 cups.

COURTESY OF Courtesy of Applica Canada licensee of Black & Decker® Appliances