Yum!
I love all the fresh fruits of summer! Fresh off the tree or vine would be even better, but we take it where we can get it.
We took a long jaunty bike ride in the sunny humidity, and once you get my boy going, there's no stopping him! So before we return home, I like to have a picnic to break and fuel up. I like something that's sweet, cool, and powerful to replace what we just expended. The fruits are nature's candy and their function give a quick burst of energy. Combined with the protein of the pistachios, the sugar in the fruit will carry through longer to fuel the ride home and boost energy. The basil not only adds flavor, (is medicinal and we definitely should consume more herb plants for proactive health), but with the active chemical compounds in it it makes a great antioxidant for all those lactic acids produced during exercise, increases oxygen throughout the body, and the citronellol in it can even be effective in repelling biting insects.
So along came a recipe I crafted to be the perfect respite for a hot active day. Oh, and it's good at the summer reunion picnic too!
Basil Fruit with Pistachio
1 nectarine, diced
1 apricot, diced
1 banana, sliced
1/2 cup pistachios
3 leaves basil (mince with a knife) Ends up being about 1 Tablespoon
2 Tablespoons orange juice concentrate (I make my own by juicing oranges, then zesting them. Freeze in ice cube trays. If you want to use a healthy frozen orange juice concentrate feel free)
1 teaspoon vanilla
Mix all the fruit together. In a small separate bowl, mix the orange juice concentrate, vanilla, and basil. Stir well, then stir into the fruit. Add the pistachios. It is best if if sits for at least 2 hours in the fridge, but can be eaten immediately.
Optional, add dollops of coconut cream on top and a dash of cinnamon.
