### Fruit Lassi: A Creamy Mixed Fruit Smoothie Recipe with Yogurt, Indian Style
As summer reaches its height, cool drinks like smoothies, fruit juices, and lassis become vital for maintaining hydration and comfort. One delightful choice is the fruit lassi, a blended fruit smoothie made with yogurt that is not only tasty but also loaded with nutrients. This beloved Indian drink is commonly sold by street vendors during the warmer months and is cherished by both children and adults.
#### Ingredients
To create a fruit lassi, you will require a variety of fresh seasonal fruits. Here’s a straightforward list to begin with:
– 1 ripe banana (ideally frozen for a creamier consistency)
– 1 apple, diced
– 1 mango, peeled and cubed
– A handful of grapes
– A few slices of musk melon
– 1 cup of yogurt (plain or flavored)
– 1-2 tablespoons of honey or sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of the fruits)
– A pinch of cardamom or cinnamon powder for flavor (optional)
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Fruits**: Begin by washing and cutting the fruits into small pieces. If you haven’t yet frozen the banana, you can do so for a few hours prior to making the lassi to achieve a silkier texture.
2. **Blend the Ingredients**: In a blender, mix the chopped fruits, yogurt, and honey or sugar if using. Blend until smooth. If the mixture feels too thick, you may add a bit of water or milk to achieve your preferred consistency.
3. **Taste and Adjust**: Sample the lassi and modify the sweetness or spice level as necessary. You might add more honey or a dusting of cardamom or cinnamon for additional flavor enhancement.
4. **Serve**: Pour the fruit lassi into glasses and top with further chopped fruits or a sprinkle of cinnamon powder. Serve right away for optimal flavor and freshness.
#### Nutritional Benefits
Fruit lassi is not merely a delight for the palate; it is also packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and probiotics from the yogurt. The mixture of fruits offers a variety of nutrients, making it a healthy option for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack. Its natural sweetness and creamy texture make it a tempting choice for children, promoting the intake of diverse fruits.
#### Variations
Feel free to get creative with different fruits according to your preferences and what’s in season. Some popular extras include strawberries, peaches, or even a handful of spinach for a nutrient boost. You can also swap yogurt for dairy-free alternatives such as almond or coconut yogurt for a vegan option.
#### Conclusion
Fruit lassi is a revitalizing and healthy drink ideal for summer months. Its bright colors and delightful tastes make it a wonderful way to kickstart your day or enjoy as a snack. With its simple preparation and adaptability, fruit lassi is undeniably one of the finest Indian beverage recipes to try this summer. Savor this creamy, fruity delight and keep cool!