Coconutty

The past few days have been splendidly sunny. The sun and the heat and the sweet breezes inspired me to create some summer refreshments today. Coconuts taste and smell like summer to me...

I enjoyed young thai coconut water straight up out of the shell after a warm morning dog walk. Forget gatorade -- this natural gem replaces electrolytes without all the chemical sketchiness. Once you figure out your favorite method of opening this type of coconut, you can enjoy them more often as a great, healthy beverage and will incorporate them into many recipes. Some people simply hack away around the top of the coconut (as seen at many farmers markets). This approach worked fine for me for the past few years. But after an explanation from Ani Phyo and this demonstration, I've adopted the kinder, gentler opening method. At the Co Op, and I'm sure at many other places that stock them, the nice produce guys will gladly open them for you. The water and the meat inside the shell have endless uses. Coconut cashew cream, vegan yogurt, sauces, dips. But for today, after a hot workout on the Mar Vista stairs (a great fitness secret) I was inspired to create this recipe for a simple, refreshing, delicious, summer-iffic Coco-Nutty Smoothie:

1 young Thai coconut

3 organic dates pitted (I used honey dates, but any type of fresh date is fine)

1/2 cup nuts (I used soaked almonds, I'll try my favorite cashews next time)

ice

Open coconut and pour water into blender with coconut meat from the shell, nuts and dates. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add ice and water until you have the consistency that's perfect for you. 

That's it! Enjoy!

I've incorporated coconut into the menu this week n the form of coconut sweet potatoes. A happy accident led me to create this recipe over the weekend and it was so good, I had  to share it with you! I also enjoy simple fruit salads for lunch, so I've added one to the menu this week too.

Another random tip that I've been happy to add to my summer moisturizing plan: coconut oil! I use it as my moisturizer on my skin and in my hair. It smells great & nourishes my skin and hair without unnecessary chemicals. It's a bit oily, so use it sparingly.

So when you're looking for a delicious and nutritious refreshment - as my mom used to tell me - use your coconut!

Have an awesome week!