Pretend Food Toys from OutoftheToyBox

Antioxidants are all the rage right now in the medical news, but what exactly are they, and why do we need them?  An antioxidant is a substance or nutrient (think vitamin C for one) that can prevent or slow down cell damage done by free radicals.  Free radicals are formed from the oxidation of molecules.  In a nutshell, antioxidants help prevent our bodies from free radical damage.

Pretend Fruit Box from OutoftheToyBox.com

One of my favorite summer fruits is blueberries, which just happen to be full of antioxidants.  Fortunately for me, I live in an area with an abundance of blueberry farms, so I have a plentiful supply of fresh berries when they are in season. I freeze them in the summer months so I can use them all year long in my baked goods, smoothies, and even straight out of the bag.

I also want to make sure my grandson gets his share of antioxidants, so I created these frozen blueberry pops that also incorporate the juice of another fruit rich in antioxidants-the pomegranate.  This recipe is quick and easy, and is a super healthy alternative to the sugar-laden frozen treats found in the grocery store.  Kids love them because they are purple, but they have no idea how healthy they’re eating.

Purple Power Smoothie Pops

Purple Power Smoothie Pops

1/2 cup 100% pure pomegranate juice

1/4 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt

1 medium banana, chopped

1/2 cup fresh or frozen whole blueberries (no need to thaw if frozen)

Place the ingredients in a blender in the order listed; process until smooth.  Pour into popsicle molds and freeze until firm, usually overnight.  This recipe makes about 1 1/2 cups smoothie liquid, before freezing.  Popsicle molds will vary in size.  Mine held 1/4 cup of liquid each.

Smoothie Pops