The Carrot Crusher! (Smoothie)

     One of my twins, we'll call him "O", most decidedly does NOT like carrots. Not the "crunchy" kind. Not the "soft" kind. He is very clear. Not in a box. Not with a fox. You get the picture.

     However he most decidedly DOES like monster trucks. Therefore, I was able to sneak a whole 1/3 of a cup of grated carrots in him by pairing them with mango and giving them a cool "arena name". Letting him drive his truck over a pile of carrots while I worked didn't hurt either!

2 generous cups frozen mango chunks

1 cup shredded carrot

1 can lite coconut milk
a dozen red grapes for sweetness

1/4 tsp ginger powder

Serves 3

Note: This is a very mild-tasting smoothie that my kids really enjoy. For me -someone who likes exciting food- it's a little bland. Try adding 1/2 a banana for sweetness and/or the juice of half a lime for brightness :)

Green "Monster Truck" Smoothie

     One of the keys to a kid-friendly green monster is CITRUS! Citrus flavor covers a multitude of sins ... or vegetables in this case. This recipe is banana free for those people who just can't warm up to the banana flavor is most smoothies. Half an avocado gives it its silky texture as well. And, as always, be sure to blend on high for at least 3 minutes to avoid a somethings-stuck-in-my-straw toddler meltdown!

2 mandarin oranges, peeled

2 kale leaves, stems removed

1 heaping cup frozen pineapple

1/2 cup chopped cucumber

1/2 avocado, pitted and peeled

1 cup almond milk

1/2 cup orange juice (fresh is best)

Serves 3