The past few days have been scorching hot with actual temperatures in the 90s and a heat index in the triple digits! When it is so hot outside, I like to keep my meals light and cool and trend toward the amazing raw fruits and vegetables of summer. I have also been hitting the gym regularly as my husband and I are planning a trip to the Caribbean this summer; and more exercise = hungrier! This lassi recipe is perfect before or after a good summer workout, as a quick and filling breakfast, or even a healthy post-dinner dessert!
Lassi is a yogurt-based shake, and can be either salty or sweet. Regardless of whether it is salty or sweet, lassi has a hint of sourness because it is made with yogurt. The most popular form of lassi is made using mangoes as the sweet component. My Dad makes an incredible mango lassi at home using buttermilk and Alphonso mango puree; it is a must-have when I am visiting home during the summer.
I whipped up this lassi in five minutes, so it is perfect when you are short on time but need something filling.
I whipped up this lassi in five minutes, so it is perfect when you are short on time but need something filling.
I use unsweetened almond milk in my recipe rather than milk because (1) I like the creamy texture of almond milk, and (2) it keeps the lassi from being too dairy-heavy. I prefer to use greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt because it is filling, is full of protein, and also has a thick and creamy texture.
I add flaxseed to the lassi to make sure I get my intake of Omega-3 fatty acids! I also use only half a banana because I want to keep the amount of sugar in this lassi low. If you are wondering what you should do with the other half of the banana--peel it, throw it in a Ziploc bag, and freeze it for the next time you want to make yourself a lassi!
Most importantly, I used blueberries instead of mangoes for a few reasons. First, Alphonso mangoes (the typical Indian variety) are hard to find in the US, and require a special trip to the Indian grocery store. Second, blueberries are great for your skin and have less sugar than mangoes. Third, it is summer, and blueberries are in season. Just look at these beauties! Yummmmm....
I add flaxseed to the lassi to make sure I get my intake of Omega-3 fatty acids! I also use only half a banana because I want to keep the amount of sugar in this lassi low. If you are wondering what you should do with the other half of the banana--peel it, throw it in a Ziploc bag, and freeze it for the next time you want to make yourself a lassi!
Most importantly, I used blueberries instead of mangoes for a few reasons. First, Alphonso mangoes (the typical Indian variety) are hard to find in the US, and require a special trip to the Indian grocery store. Second, blueberries are great for your skin and have less sugar than mangoes. Third, it is summer, and blueberries are in season. Just look at these beauties! Yummmmm....
The "recipe" here is simple: combine the almond milk, yogurt, blueberries, flaxseed, and half a banana in a blender and hit "blend."
Add a few ice cubes to a glass and pour the lassi over the ice. Kick back your feet and enjoy slowly, or drink it fast so you can be on your way to work--both are your delicious and nutritious choice!
Ingredients (serves 2-4)
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Recipe:
- Combine almond milk, greek yogurt, blueberries, banana, and flaxseed in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Add ice cubes to your glass(es) and pour the lassi over the ice.