Mango Orange Mint Smoothie

As the summer commences we automatically switch from warm beverages to body cooling and energising delights.We do not want to “eat” and rather “drink” in the summers as in water,aerated beverages and cooling drinks.But these do not “fill the tummy” and after a time we feel hungry again.This is what leads to unhealthy eating and problems associated with weight gain.But smoothies come to our rescue and not only do we gain a “full tummy satisfaction” but also lose weight and inches and gain loads of confidence as our skin also becomes brighter and soft.

This is the first smoothie post on the blog thanks to my lovely friend Priya Suresh who started the Shhhhh Secretly Cooking Challenge.This time paired with Priya herself was a wonderful experience.She gave me options to choose either Mango or ripe Jackfruit.I was not sure of getting ripe Jackfruit so opted for Mango and she gave me Orange.So this delicious smoothie was crafted with the addition of 2 special ingredients – Oats and Pumpkin Seeds with skimmed milk as a base.

I gave Priya the delicious Guava fruit with which she made a sensational smoothie!

Now as we know Oats are the new superfood along with Quinoa and are experimented with nearly all Indian delicacies especially the breakfast ones like Upma or Idli.They make a lovely porridge as well.Check out my Oats and Cinnamon porridge here.Pumpkin Seeds are nutritious with Omega 3 acids which are very essential for women.Mango is a fruit loved by everyone and Orange is a tangy delightful citrus product of nature.Mint is known for its refreshing,body cooling and medicinal properties.When all these come together how can anything not be good?

This recipe was featured in the Shhhhh Secretly Cooking Challenge for the month of April!Here is the logo of the Challenge :

Preparation Time : 15 minutes

Chilling time : 2 hours

Makes : 2 big or 3 small servings

INGREDIENTS

2 medium ripe Mangoes(Alphonso,Dussehri,Badami – whatever available in your area) – peeled and diced,stone discarded

2 medium Oranges – Juiced

2 tbsp Oats

1 tbsp Pumpkin Seeds

2 – 3 cups skimmed milk(whole milk/full fat milk can also be used for a richer flavour)/fresh Yogurt can also be used

2 tbsp sugar(optional)

1 tbsp mint leaves

METHOD

Roast the Oats and Pumpkin Seeds on low heat for 2-3 minutes.Take out on a plate and let it come to room temperature.Grind to a fine powder.

In a blender jar combine diced Mango flesh,orange juice,oats and pumpkin seed powder,milk and 1/2 tbsp mint leaves.Blend till everything is finely pulsed and mixed.Add sugar if using and check consistency.If too thick then add a little more milk.Blend to a smoothie consistency.Pour into glasses or smoothie cups.I have used the glass milk bottles with straw for a total “summer effect”..:)

Chill for 2 hours.Serve topped with the rest of the mint leaves!

Shots of the smoothie :