Pick of the Month: November 2019

‘Tis the Season for Opal Apples

CIIC Account Coordinator Nina Foley shares her pick for November 2019.

Opal Apples are the only naturally non-browning, non-GMO apples in the US and a tasty treat all on their own. Registered dietitian Cynthia Sass, recently partnered with Opal Apples to create tasty (and healthy) new recipes just in time for the holidays. Ranging from sweet to savory, there is something for everyone and every meal.   

A fun twist on the classic smoothie recipe is the Hot Apple Pie Smoothie. This recipe is perfect for dessert and smoothie lovers alike. Not to mention, it’s also the ideal beverage to accompany any holiday gathering and combat the cold winter weather. Watch out hot chocolate; the Hot Apple Pie Smoothie might give you a run for your money! 

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Hot Apple Pie Smoothie (one serving)

1 cup of unsweetened almond milk

1 Opal apple (cored but with skin), chopped

1 small zucchini, chopped, (discard stem)

¼ cup of almond flour

1 tablespoon of almond butter

1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup, divided 

2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract

1-inch cube of fresh ginger root

1.5 teaspoons of apple pie spice, divided

Prep and measure all ingredients. Warm the almond milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s hot, but not boiling. Transfer heated almond milk to a blender and add the apple, zucchini, almond flour, almond butter, ½ tablespoon of maple syrup, vanilla, ginger, and one teaspoon of apple pie spice. Blend until smooth and pour into a serving glass.

As an alternative, blend the smoothie using cold or room temperature almond milk, and then heat the blended smoothie in a saucepan over a stovetop.

Pour into a serving glass. To garnish, drizzle the top of the smoothie with the remaining half tablespoon of maple syrup and dust with the remaining half teaspoon of apple pie spice. 

Enjoy!