(Family Features) Bolstering your immune system during winter, when coughs and colds seem to take control, is a must for the entire family. Supporting your wellness can start in a simple place – with the foods you eat and drink.

Consider an easy choice for any season like Florida Orange Juice, which can help you and your loved ones get the vitamins and minerals you need all winter long. With 100% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C in every 8-ounce serving along with key nutrients like potassium and magnesium, there’s a reason it’s referred to as the “Original Wellness Drink.”

With no added sugar or artificial flavor, it provides the benefits you need without the additives you don’t. It contains natural sugar from the whole fruit for a delicious solution that’s one of nature’s nutrient-rich foods with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Plus, it’s easy to use as a nutritional ingredient in wintertime favorites like this comforting Orange Juice and Coconut Chickpea Soup or to start your day strong with a Superfruit Breakfast Smoothie.

Paired with a healthy lifestyle, 8 ounces of 100% orange juice may help support a healthy immune system as an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of vitamin D in fortified juices. Vitamin C is commonly associated with helping maintain and strengthen healthy immune systems by protecting cells and promoting the production and function of immune cells. Meanwhile, vitamin D also plays an important role in regulating immune response by helping immune cells fight off bacteria and viruses.

“Safeguarding your health against the spread of illness is important year-round, especially during colder months when reports of cold and flu increase,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “A key step in supporting your immune system is maintaining a well-balanced diet that is high in essential nutrients. Incorporating an 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice can help you meet the recommended daily value of vitamin C and support your hydration.”

Beneficial plant compounds, like those in Florida Orange Juice, along with flavonoids and colorful carotenoids work to support the immune system by fighting inflammation and helping cells communicate, which can help strengthen immune responses when encountering infections.

Additionally, 100% orange juice is a source of phytonutrients like hesperidin, which has been shown in clinical studies to have antioxidant-like properties, heart health benefits and may help reduce inflammation. Hesperidin has also been linked with benefits related to cognitive function, immune system function and bone health.

To find more information and immunity-boosting winter recipes, visit FloridaJuice.com.

Orange Juice and Coconut Chickpea Soup

Servings: 8

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 1/2 cups diced carrots
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 3 cloves garlic, finely grated
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 quart vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 ounces) light coconut milk
• 1 can (14 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup Florida Orange juice
• chopped cilantro (optional)

1. In medium saucepan over medium high, heat olive oil until it shimmers.
2. Add onions, bell pepper, carrots and salt; cook until onions are translucent, 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cardamom; cook 1-2 minutes, or until garlic is fragrant. Do not brown.
4. Add vegetable broth, coconut milk and chickpeas; bring to simmer.
5. Decrease heat to low and cook until carrots are tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Add orange juice, remove from heat and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
7. Serve garnished with cilantro, if desired.

Superfruit Breakfast Smoothie

Servings: 2

• 8 ounces Florida Orange Juice
• 4 ounces dark sweet cherries
• 2 ounces pomegranate juice

1. In blender, puree orange juice, cherries and pomegranate juice then serve.

(Family Features) Catching a cold or getting the flu can happen any time of year, but the height of cold and flu season requires extra precaution. Flu activity often increases in the fall and peaks between December and January, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Staying completely healthy throughout cold and flu season can’t be guaranteed, but, along with following guidance from your health care provider, dietary and lifestyle changes can help optimize your immune system and well-being.

Eat Healthfully
Eating a healthy diet is essential for optimizing your immune system. Many experts recommend consuming whole foods and plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and legumes as well as whole grains. These foods contain beneficial plant compounds linked to health benefits in humans. Consider one prime example, fresh grapes, and how they may support immune health.

• At the most basic level, healthy cells are the foundation of good health. Natural grape compounds, including antioxidants and other polyphenols, help protect the health and function of the body’s cells.
• Studies suggest some grape compounds – resveratrol and certain flavonoids – may positively influence immune function.
• Additional studies show adding heart-healthy grapes to your daily diet can help support brain, colon and skin health. Maintaining healthy bodily systems is essential to defending against illnesses.
• Grapes are a good source of vitamin K, which may help support lung health.

An easy way to incorporate healthy foods into your diet is with simple recipes like this Immune-Boosting Green Grape Smoothie that contains additional nutritious ingredients that support immune health like spinach, walnuts and Greek yogurt.

Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is important for staying hydrated, which helps your immune system by keeping the body’s defenses functioning properly. In addition to water, you can increase hydration by eating foods with high water content like Grapes from California, which contain about 82% water.

Exercise Regularly
Getting your blood pumping with a little exercise can help improve immune response and reduce inflammation, according to a scientific review from the “Journal of Sport and Health Science.” Look toward aerobic activities like moderate-intensity walking, jogging and biking to increase the heart rate and encourage circulation of immune cells.

Practice Good Hygiene
You can protect yourself and others at the same time by taking preventive measures, like practicing good hygiene, to avoid spreading germs. At the most basic level, limit contact with others who are sick, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue while coughing or sneezing and wash your hands using soap and water.

Manage Stress
Stress can have a negative impact on many aspects of your health and wellness, including limiting your body’s ability to fight off infection. You can lower stress by practicing deep breathing or meditation and developing good habits like eating right, exercising and getting enough sleep. For late night snacking urges, choose foods such as grapes that are a natural source of melatonin, a compound which helps regulate sleep cycles. Talking with someone you trust, whether it’s a friend, family member or mental health professional, can help relieve stress as well.

Find more immunity-boosting recipes by visiting GrapesFromCalifornia.com.

Immune-Boosting Green Grape Smoothie

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1          cup green Grapes from California, chilled
• 2 1/2    ounces baby spinach
• 1/3       cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4       cup fresh orange juice
• 1          cube (1/2 inch) peeled fresh ginger or 2 teaspoons prepared minced ginger
• 1          tablespoon walnut pieces

1. In blender, blend grapes, spinach, yogurt, orange juice, ginger and walnuts until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.

Nutritional information per serving: 280 calories; 12 g protein; 46 g carbohydrates; 7 g fat (23% calories from fat); 1.5 g saturated fat (5% calories from saturated fat); 10 mg cholesterol; 110 mg sodium; 4 g fiber.

Source: California Table Grape Commission

Making a delicious oatmeal smoothie has never been easier. Just six ingredients and a blender is all you need to make the perfect fruit-smoothie at home. Deliciously sweet and creamy this strawberry oatmeal smoothie makes for a healthy and filling breakfast or snack.
 

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Strawberry Oatmeal Smoothie

• ½ cup rolled oats
• 1 banana
• 14 frozen strawberries
• 1 cup soy milk
• 1 ½ teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Use blender to grind up oats.
2. Add soy milk, strawberries, banana, vanilla extract and sugar then blend until smooth.
3. Pour and serve.

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) Setting the stage for success in the classroom starts with reliable morning routines the whole family can depend on. Establishing a plan for each day before heading off for work or school is beneficial for staying on time and organized, and many families’ mornings start with a nutritious breakfast.

This school year, add better-for-you breakfast recipes like Orange Oatmeal or an Orangeberry Smoothie to the menu. These morning meals are powered by 100% orange juice, a delicious option that helps fuel the body with essential nutrients that support a healthy immune system and overall diet quality with no added sugar.

“A growing number of research studies has revealed children who regularly drink 100% orange juice have higher intakes of key nutrients, higher quality diets and may have healthier lifestyle habits, like greater physical activity levels, than children who do not drink OJ,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “Study after study confirms that 100% orange juice not only has a place in the diets of children, but it can also serve as an easy way for parents to provide key nutrients without fear of adverse effects on body weight when served in moderation.”

Consider these nutritional benefits of Florida Orange Juice, “The Original Wellness Drink.”

Diet Quality
Because 1 cup of 100% orange juice counts as 1 cup of fruit, it’s an easy way to contribute to your children’s fruit intake. As a kid-favorite, it’s a nutrient-dense beverage that helps increase the intake of key nutrients including vitamin C, folate, thiamin, magnesium, potassium and, in fortified juices, vitamin D and calcium.

Immune Support
When paired with a healthy lifestyle, Florida Orange Juice has vitamin C, vitamin D (in fortified juices) and phytonutrients (naturally occurring plant compounds) and may help support a strong immune system.

• Vitamin C – Commonly associated with helping maintain and strengthen a healthy immune system by protecting cells and promoting the production and function of cells. One 6-8-ounce glass of OJ is an excellent source.
• Vitamin D – Plays an important role in regulating immune response and helps cells fight off bacteria and viruses that get into the body. One 6-8-ounce glass of fortified OJ is a good source.
• Plant Compounds, Flavonoids and Colorful Carotenoids – Work to support the immune system by helping to fight inflammation and helping cells communicate with each other, which can help strengthen immune response when encountering infection.

No Added Sugar
Unlike foods and beverages that contain added sugars, the natural sugar in 100% orange juice contains vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. As one of nature’s nutrient-rich foods, OJ is a convenient way to enhance whole fruit intake and reach daily recommendations. Plus, it can be used as a substitute for nutrient-poor foods and beverages, such as sugar-sweetened beverages, in the diets of children and adults.

Find more information and recipe inspiration at FloridaCitrus.org/OJ.

Orange Oatmeal

Servings: 4

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1 cup quick cooking steel-cut oats
• 1 Florida Orange, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

1. In medium saucepan over high heat, bring water and orange juice to boil.
2. Add oats to boiling liquids.
3. Return to boil then reduce to medium heat and cook uncovered 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Mix in orange, agave nectar, cinnamon and salt. Remove pan from heat; let stand 1 minute before serving.

Orangeberry Smoothie

Servings: 1

• 1 cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
• 4 ounces strawberry Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk
• ice cubes
• 1 Florida Orange, sliced

1. In blender, blend orange juice, strawberries, yogurt, milk and ice, as needed to reach desired consistency, until smooth.
2. Pour into glass and garnish with orange slice.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

(Family Features) Once everyone in the family arrives home from work and school, there just might be a mad dash to the kitchen for a satisfying snack.

This Chocolate Strawberry Smoothie provides a sweet way to refuel after long days on the job or in the classroom. Blending family-favorite ingredients like frozen strawberries, yogurt, chocolate syrup and vanilla makes this a simple treat that allows you to avoid spending an entire evening in the kitchen. Plus, it calls for lactose-free milk, allowing those with lactose intolerance to get in on the fun and flavor.

Some bodies are unable to break down the sugar found in milk, known as lactose, which causes an upset stomach and a heavy, bloated feeling. Rather than avoiding dairy and missing out on beneficial nutrients, people with lactose intolerance can enjoy real dairy products that are naturally low in or don’t contain lactose without the stomachache.

Find more lactose intolerance-friendly recipes at MilkMeansMore.org.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe

Chocolate Strawberry Smoothie

Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1          cup frozen unsweetened strawberries
• 1          container (5.3 ounces) strawberry Greek yogurt
• 1/2       cup lactose-free milk (skim, 2% or whole)
• 2          tablespoons chocolate syrup
• 1/4       teaspoon vanilla
• fresh strawberries (optional)

1. In blender, blend frozen strawberries, yogurt, lactose-free milk, chocolate syrup and vanilla until nearly smooth.
2. Pour into 16-18-ounce glass. Garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired.

Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan

To kids, birthday parties are a big deal and only happen once a year. From the decorations to their friends and all the sweet, delicious treats to devour, it can be an overwhelming amount of excitement and awe.

They receive gifts, get to have fun with their friends and family, and get to snack on treats they typically don’t have on a regular basis. This is part of what makes birthdays so fun.

It can be a lot of pressure for parents, though. You want everything to be perfect and fall in line with expectations, especially when it comes to the food and treats served to everyone that day.

At the next party you’re hosting, try this delightful Fruity Sprinkles Smoothie that fits the theme for nearly any colorful birthday bash.

It’s made with frozen blueberries, frozen strawberries and frozen mango for a healthier alternative to sugar-filled birthday cake. Topped with fluffy, fun whipped cream and mini sprinkles, it still provides a sweet, festive treat. Plus, this smoothie can be made in a matter of minutes using only one kitchen appliance for easy clean up.

To make it, blend frozen blueberries, frozen strawberries, frozen mango, milk and yogurt until well combined.

Pour the mixture into four smoothie glasses and garnish each with whipped cream and sprinkles to add some extra color. It’s that easy to make and even better to enjoy while watching your kid make wonderful memories with friends and family.

Find more fun celebration recipes at Culinary.net.

If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

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Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Fruity Sprinkles Smoothie

Servings: 4

• 1          cup frozen blueberries
• 2          cups frozen strawberries
• 1          cup frozen mango
• 1 1/2    cups milk
• 1          carton (6 ounces) vanilla yogurt
• whipped cream
• sprinkles

1. In blender, blend blueberries, strawberries, mango, milk and yogurt until combined.
2. Pour smoothie into four glasses. Garnish with whipped cream and sprinkles.

(Family Features) From breakfasts to salads, desserts and beyond, fruit is unique in its ability to add both flavor and nutrition to family-favorite dishes. As you look for ways to incorporate produce in your family’s recipes, consider an option with a sweet-tart flavor and eye-catching color: red raspberries.

In the cool, marine climate of the Pacific Northwest, Washington state produces approximately 90% of the nation’s frozen red raspberry crop. Picked at the peak of ripeness and frozen within hours of being harvested, flavor and nutrition are locked in to offer convenience and consistent quality out of the freezer section at most grocery stores, perfect for better-for-you desserts like Pecan-Topped Raspberry Cake and Red Raspberry Whole-Fruit Sorbet.

With a distinct flavor that works well in dishes from sweet to savory, red raspberries can add bright flavor and balance to recipes ranging from salads like Spinach and Frisee Salad with Raspberry Pickled Onions and Raspberry Vinaigrette to a morning meal such as this Raspberry Coconut Smoothie Bowl. Plus, 1 cup of the flavorful red fruit includes just 80 calories and contains 6 grams of fiber while providing 28% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant.

Find more recipes at redrazz.org

Raspberry Coconut Smoothie Bowl

Servings: 2

• 2          cups frozen raspberries
• 1          large frozen banana
• 2/3       cup light coconut milk
• 1          tablespoon chia seeds

Toppings (optional):

• shredded coconut
• shaved dark chocolate
• hazelnuts
• chia seeds
• edible flowers

1. In blender, puree raspberries, banana, coconut milk and chia seeds until smooth. Mixture will be thick; ingredients may need pushed down to get blender going. If necessary, add more coconut milk.
2. Pour into two bowls. Garnish each with shredded coconut, shaved dark chocolate, hazelnuts, chia seeds and edible flowers, if desired.

Red Raspberry Whole-Fruit Sorbet

Servings: 8 (1/2 cup each)

• 4          tablespoons powdered sugar
• 18        ounces frozen raspberries
• 1 egg white, pasteurized

1. In blender, blend sugar and frozen raspberries until smooth.
2. Add egg white and blend 30 seconds.
3. Serve immediately or place in container, cover and store in freezer.

Spinach and Frisee Salad with Raspberry Pickled Onions and Raspberry Vinaigrette

Servings: 4

Raspberry Vinegar:

• 1          cup frozen raspberries
• 2          cups vinegar

Raspberry Pickled Onions:

• 1/2       cup Raspberry Vinegar
• 1          teaspoon olive oil
• 2          tablespoons sugar
• 2          teaspoons kosher salt
• 1          pound sweet onions, peeled and julienned
• 1          cup frozen raspberries, partially thawed

Raspberry Vinaigrette:

• 1          cup Raspberry Vinegar
• 1          teaspoon fresh shallot, peeled and minced
• 2          teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2       tablespoon honey
• 1/2       teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4       cup olive oil

Spinach and Frisee Salad:

• 8          ounces baby spinach, cleaned and dried
• 8          ounces frisee lettuce, cleaned, dried and torn
• 2          ounces Raspberry Vinaigrette
• 6          ounces Raspberry Pickled Onions
• 2          ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 ounces almonds, slivered and toasted

1. To make Raspberry Vinegar: In clean glass container, combine frozen raspberries and vinegar; cover tightly. Refrigerate 3-7 days prior to use.
2. Pour vinegar through fine strainer or cheesecloth-lined strainer into clean glass container. Cover container tightly and store in refrigerator. Discard raspberries.
3. To make Raspberry Pickled Onions: In medium, non-reactive container, combine Raspberry Vinegar, oil, sugar and salt. Stir to dissolve sugar. Add onions and raspberries. Toss well to blend and coat onions.
4. To make Raspberry Vinaigrette: In blender, combine Raspberry Vinegar, shallot, Dijon mustard, honey and salt. With motor running, slowly add oil in steady stream. Reserve remaining Raspberry Vinegar.
5. Once blended, pour Raspberry Vinaigrette into clean, non-reactive container; cover and reserve in refrigerator until ready to use.
6. To make Spinach and Frisee Salad: In medium mixing bowl, combine spinach and lettuce. Add Raspberry Vinaigrette and toss well to coat.
7. Plate 4 ounces mixed greens.
8. Top mixed greens with 1 1/2 ounces Raspberry Pickled Onions, 1/2 ounce feta cheese crumbles and 1/2 ounce toasted almonds. Repeat with remaining greens, Raspberry Pickled Onions, feta cheese crumbles and toasted almonds.

Pecan-Topped Raspberry Cake

Servings: 8

• 3/4       cup granulated sugar, plus 1 tablespoon, divided
• 1/2       cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2          eggs
• 1          cup all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1          teaspoon baking powder
• 1          teaspoon vanilla
• 1          bag (12 ounces) frozen raspberries
• 1/2       cup chopped pecans
• 1          tablespoon lemon juice
• 1          teaspoon cinnamon
• whipped cream

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. In bowl, cream 3/4 cup sugar and butter. Add eggs one at a time and continue beating until well incorporated. Add flour, baking powder and vanilla; beat well.
3. Pour batter evenly into 9- or 10-inch prepared pan.
4. Place frozen raspberries on top of batter. Sprinkle with pecans, remaining sugar, lemon juice and cinnamon.
5. Bake about 1 hour. Remove from oven and let cool.
6. Serve with whipped cream.

Source: Washington Red Raspberry Commission

(Family Features) Save time and serve up better-for-you lunches, snacks, desserts and after-school energy boosts with these simple and affordable recipes.

By packing quick and easy lunches, you can have your kids set for each busy day without sacrificing time together. Shopping for your grade-A, back-to-school essentials at a store like ALDI means you’ll use quality ingredients to prepare fun, better-for-you lunchboxes and more.

Consider these eight recipe ideas to pack a better lunchbox. Get schooled in savings and check out aldi.us to find more back-to-school inspiration.

1. Secret Veggie Turkey Nuggets – Sneak those all-important veggies into your child’s lunch with these baked nuggets that combine ground turkey, cauliflower, zucchini and onions. Add a favorite dipping sauce to the lunchbox for a tasty, nutritious midday meal.

2. Bento Box Lunch – If your child is adventurous when it comes to flavors, combine a turkey sandwich roll, quinoa salad, broccoli salad and cinnamon apples in this full-flavored bento box.

3. Fruit Leather Wraps – Snack time doesn’t have to mean candy and other unhealthy options. Instead, provide a sweet treat that’s all-natural with blueberries and raspberries in these fruity wraps that are both guilt- and gluten-free.

4. Tropical Granola Bar – One of the most versatile snacks to enjoy nearly any time of day: granola bars. This homemade version combines dried fruit with pumpkin flax and quick oats for a sweet, nutritious treat.

5. Peanut Butter Granola Bites – Make dessert a more nutritious venture with the classic combination of peanut butter, fruit and honey. These small bites of savory flavor can be ready in just 12 minutes for a nighttime snack the whole family can share.

6. Strawberry Yogurt Bars – The nutritious combination of oats and strawberries makes for a tasty treat. This kid-friendly recipe is an easy option to make ahead and serve anytime.

7. Tropical Superfruit Smoothie – It only takes six natural ingredients and five minutes to make a supercharged after-school snack.

8. Carrot Pineapple Smoothie – Before diving into the evening’s homework assignments, help your little learner refuel with fruits and veggies in this creamy smoothie.

Source: ALDI

(Family Features) Make it easy to stick to your resolutions by starting every morning with a breakfast with more protein. Did you know the average breakfast bowl or plate contains on average only 13 grams of protein, yet some nutrition experts recommend getting 20-30 grams at each meal?

Spreading out your protein throughout the day (rather than in one large amount) can help optimize how your body uses it. That means getting enough protein at breakfast! A breakfast with enough protein can help you feel fuller longer so you’re more likely to stick to your healthy eating routine. One easy way to get eight grams of high-quality protein is to add milk to your breakfast routine – whether in a cup, bowl and in your favorite recipe, an 8-ounce glass of milk contains 8 grams of high-quality protein!

Here are eight delicious breakfast ideas with protein to kick-start your new year.

Savory Oatmeal with Sunny Side Up Egg + Bacon

Make your oatmeal with milk instead of water to add milk’s high-quality protein to your morning meal. This twist also adds the classic combo of bacon and eggs to shake up your morning routine – serving up a total of 25 grams of protein.

Grab-and-Go Mini Breakfast Casseroles with Cheddar and Spinach

Need a quick breakfast for busy mornings? These grab-and-go mini casseroles have a few simple ingredients, like lowfat milk, spinach and cheddar cheese – with a ton of palate payoff. Pair two mini casseroles with a cup of milk for 24 grams of protein.

Apple-Cinnamon Whole-Grain Pancake Muffins

Try this yummy twist on your morning go-to pancakes filled with delicious apple slices and cinnamon and made with 100% whole-grain pancake batter. Pair with an 8-ounce glass of milk to add an extra 8 grams of protein to the meal, for a total of 13 grams.

Spinach Mushroom Breakfast Crepes 

These savory crepes made with milk and filled with veggies and Swiss cheese for a delicious way to kick-start your day with 23 grams of protein.

Skillet Eggs and Polenta 

Breakfast takes a flavorful twist in this recipe that uses traditional Italian flavors of polenta and marinara to create a delicious dish. Pair with a glass of milk for 25 grams of protein.

Creamy Green Goddess Smoothie 

Lowfat milk and avocados make this smoothie extra creamy for 7 grams of protein per serving, and it’s packed with spinach, pineapple and bananas so it’s a choice you can feel good about.

Nutty Blueberry Quinoa Oatmeal 

Spice up your morning meal by adding quinoa and blueberries. Pair this dish with a glass of milk for 21 grams of protein power to start your day!  

Chicken Sausage Scramble

Sweet potatoes, lowfat milk and chicken sausage combine in this tasty egg scramble to give you a protein boost to start your morning right. Add a cup of milk for 22 grams of protein.

For more recipes, visit MilkLife.com or check out Pinterest.

Source: Milk Life

(Family Features) Moms and kids can make Father's Day exciting this year by making Dad some great tasting treats from the heart.

Not only will it keep spending in check, the results will taste delicious and kids will have fun being part of the action.

Start by serving Dad breakfast in bed. Try a Kiwifruit Potassium Power Smoothie, an all-natural smoothie that is a meal in itself. Kids can personalize the breakfast by peeling and cutting kiwifruit into stars, hearts and other fun shapes to add to the smoothie. (Kiwifruit shapes can also top pancakes or cereal.)

Later in the day, older kids can be Dad's helper at the grill. Try sweet and juicy fruit skewers along with Curried Turkey Sliders With Chutney - the tropical flavor of the kebabs and the tangy curry of the sliders make the perfect taste combination that will make Dad feel really special.

Fresh fruit also perks up cocktails and mocktails. A Green Kiwifruit Vesper cocktail or mocktail is just the thing to finish off an unforgettable Father's Day.

Quick tips on cooking with kiwifruit

• Green kiwifruit is a natural meat tenderizer. Simply peel and mash a kiwifruit and spread it on a cut of meat. Let stand for 10 to 15 minutes and then lightly scrape off the kiwifruit before cooking.
• Look for plump and smooth-skinned kiwifruit with no wrinkles, bruises or punctures. Ripe green and gold kiwifruit will keep at room temperature for a few days. Keep them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator to store longer.
• To speed up the ripening process, put kiwifruit in a brown bag with an apple or banana and leave on your kitchen counter.

More recipes and nutritional information are available at www.zesprikiwi.com.

Curried Turkey Sliders With Kiwifruit Chutney

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes
6 servings

Chutney

• 2 Zespri green kiwifruit, peeled, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon golden raisins
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

1. Combine kiwifruit, raisins, sugar and salt in small bowl and mix. Make chutney just prior to serving.

Curried Turkey Sliders

• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1/4 cup finely diced onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 12 mini burger or small dinner rolls, split and toasted

1. Preheat grill to medium. Combine turkey, onions, cilantro, curry powder, salt and pepper in medium bowl. Shape into 12 2-inch mini burger patties. Grill patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning once, until cooked through. Place on buns; top with chutney.

Green Kiwifruit Vesper

Prep time: 3 minutes
2 cocktails

• 2 Zespri green kiwifruit, peeled, chopped
• 2 ounces vodka
• 2 ounces gin
• 2 ounces Lillet Blanc
• 1 cup ice

1. Muddle kiwifruit, vodka, gin, Lillet Blanc and ice in cocktail shaker. Shake all ingredients and strain into two sugar-rimmed martini glasses. Garnish with unpeeled kiwifruit slice.

For a mocktail, substitute 6 ounces white grape juice and a dash of bitters for alcohol.

Kiwifruit Potassium Power Smoothie

Prep time: 5 minutes
2 servings

• 1 cup vanilla soymilk, fortified (or regular milk)
• 1 cup orange juice, calcium fortified
• 2 Zespri gold or green kiwifruit, washed, unpeeled, chopped
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1/2 cup ice cubes
• 2 tablespoons soy protein powder
• 1 teaspoon honey

1. Blend all ingredients in blender on high for 20 to 30 seconds or until smooth. Serve immediately.

Summer Kebabs

Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
8 servings

• 2 Zespri green kiwifruit, peeled and cut into halves
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon ginger, fresh, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, ground
• 8 Zespri green kiwifruit, peeled and cut in half widthwise
• 2 peaches, peeled, pitted and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 pineapple, peeled, cored and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 8 strawberries, hulled
• 2 bananas, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 8 wooden skewers

1. Purée lemon juice, honey, ginger, cinnamon and 2 kiwifruit, in food processor until smooth to make kiwifruit glaze. Do not crush kiwifruit seeds; set aside.
2. Place prepared fruit in large bowl. Pour puréed kiwifruit glaze over fruit and gently toss to coat. Marinate for 30 minutes. Arrange mixed fruits on skewers. Brush grill with oil. Preheat grill.
3. Grill fruit over medium heat for 5 minutes on each side, brushing with kiwifruit glaze until light brown. Serve immediately.

Source: Zespri Kiwifruit