Peach Basil Kefir Smoothie Recipe
I had this great panzanella last summer that combined peaches and basil. Ok, in the height of summer there's not much that basil isn't great with, but the sweet-and-savory peach and basil pairing really is special. By first making a quick puree of ripe, juicy peaches right in blender, you have all the liquid you'll need for the smoothie, and tons of fragrant peach flavor. Adding fresh green basil to the mix lends a layer of complexity to this sophisticated version of peaches and cream.
Atangy take on peaches and cream, this 3-ingredient smoothie combines luscious peaches, basil, and frozen kefir cubes. The kefir cubes, which make the smoothie cold and creamy without watering down the flavor like regular ice cubes, can be made in advance and stored in a ziploc freezer bag. There's no need to peel the peaches for this smoothie.
Note: Be sure to select plain, whole-milk kefir to make the kefir cubes. This recipe makes five kefir ice cubes, enough for one drink; if you're making more than one smoothie, be sure to make the number of kefir cubes you need.
Ingredients
- For the Kefir Ice Cubes:
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons plain whole-milk kefir
- For the Smoothie:
- 2 ripe medium peaches, pitted and quartered
- 4 large basil leaves
- 5 Kefir ice cubes
- Additional peaches, for garnish (optional)
Directions
For the Kefir Ice Cubes: Divide kefir between 5 slots of an ice cube tray, using about 2 tablespoons for each cube. Freeze overnight, remove from the tray, and store in a zipper-lock bag in the freezer.
For the Smoothie: Blend peaches at medium speed until smooth, scraping the sides as needed. Add basil and kefir ice cubes and blend until completely smooth. Serve immediately garnished with extra peaches, if desired.
Special equipment
blender, ice cube tray
