Cantaloupe Smoothies with Ginger & Cilantro

I have always been a true believer in simple, easy recipes. Sure, every once-in-a-while it’s nice to cook a fancy meal or bake an elaborate dessert, but 85% of the time I prefer recipes that are simple, and don’t require any crazy ingredients.

Sometimes the best recipes are the ones with the shortest ingredient list. You don’t need to spend a ton of money or hours in the kitchen to pair together certain flavours that are just so right.

This smoothie is one of those recipes. Four ingredients – four! – get thrown in a blender and pureed for a few minutes. That’s it. Sweet and juicy cantaloupe, a tangy kick of fresh ginger, and fragrant, earthy cilantro mixed with a splash of milk. It’s such an odd flavour combination, but they go so well together.

Like, day-yum. So much yum.

I’m not sure what compelled me to add cilantro to the blender. I was clearing out my fridge and needed to use it up, so I shrugged and tossed it in. Turns out, it’s a great addition to a smoothie. It makes it a little bit tangy, a little bit earthy, and balances out the sweetness of the cantaloupe. The ginger adds a bit of bite, and the milk just smooths things out a bit.

Since cantaloupe’s are 90% water, this smoothie is a great way to fill up while enjoying all the health benefits. Throw in some protein powder and this would make a great post-workout snack. It’s flavourful, delicious, and healthy. Oh, and like I mentioned, it’s ready in 5 minutes.

I’ve been toying with the idea of jogging with Parker to work and back every day. I already walk him to and from work (he gets to hang out at the office with me) and if I upped the anti by running instead, I’d be getting a better workout. I miss sweating it out at the gym, and walking doesn’t give me quite the rush as running.

I’ll just keep a spare pair of pants and a shirt at the office. No one will know. There’s even a shower, so I really have no excuse.

When I finally do start running, this smoothie will be the perfect snack when I get home. Hydration, flavour, and health benefits, all in one smoothie!

Try swapping the milk in this smoothie for coconut milk, coconut water, almond milk, or even ice! Then drink up and revel in the refreshing and unusual (but delicious!) flavour.

Oh cantaloupe, how I love thee!