Cold + sweet treats are naturally kid-friendly. Shop local farmers markets for tasty seasonal fruit to have on hand for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat: seasonal sorbet.
When produce is at its peak, it's usually the sweetest, most nutritionally dense, and most abundant (making it more affordable, too). The fresh produce season can be fleeting for items, such as watermelon and peaches, so why not take advantage of the short season? Buy extra and freeze. You’ll have the most delicious fruit at your fingertips and in your freezer, so you can enjoy the flavors of summer all yearlong. Bonus, this dessert is guilt free for serving kiddos because it uses little sugar and is nutritious as well as delicious!
Seasonal Sorbet
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 cups fresh, frozen seasonal fruit, such as watermelon, peaches or strawberries
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1-3 tablespoons of local, raw honey or agave (depending on how sweet your fruit is naturally)
- Pinch of salt to enhance flavors
- ¼ cup of water or fruit juice, if needed
DIRECTIONS:
Ahead of time: Chop the fruit in 1-inch evenly sized chunks, and freeze in a single layer on a cookie sheet to avoid clumping. Once frozen, store in an airtight container for later use.
When desiring to prepare, combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Add more liquid if needed to help blend smoothly and press down with a spatula to help the process along. Add more honey for a sweeter taste. Eat immediately for a softer texture, or transfer into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 3-4 hours or until firm. Also works for popsicle molds. Keeps for three months. This can be made days and weeks ahead of time. Serves 4.
Optional: Add in fresh mint, basil or thyme. Add a drop or two of a high-quality essential oil from doTERRA, such as lime, kumquat, lemon, cinnamon or rosemary, to add a layer of botanical flavor. Try a spice such as cardamom or cinnamon. Maybe your kids aren’t adventurous eaters; reserve these more complex flavors for an adult dinner party. Or, make a split batch.
Tip: Using fruit that's already frozen results in a smoother, less icy sorbet. This also shortens setting time for the sorbet. Add in a little plant-based milk for a creamier variety.
Alana Fravell
Ready For Seconds?
MEET THE AUTHOR
Alana is driven to help her community live their best lives. She can found at her garden center and produce market Sugar Grove Growers in Troy, Missouri, and on her blog sharing knowledge about plants, healthy cooking, mocktails, connecting with nature and self-care. She says she believes we all deserve to live a life of quality and can do that by being intentional about how we care for ourselves and spend our time. She guides others regarding how to simplify, scale back and grow in healthy, meaningful ways. She has upcoming virtual and in-person workshops through which to connect. Learn more at AlanaFravell.com.