There’s a nature conservancy just a few blocks from my front door that offers the perfect blend of sun and shade for summer walks. The paths wind around a creek and marshland, through mossy forests, and over a few hilly fields. I make it a priority to try to get outside for a walk or jog every day in the summer. Exercising in the great outdoors has a way of clearing my head and invigorating my senses far better than a gym or dim basement.

I used to think I wasn’t much of a summer weather person. One warm day and I’d wilt like a pansy in the hot sun. But I find that when I stay hydrated, I can handle the heat without an issue. Although I guzzle water all day long no matter the season (from this awesome bottle in lime green), I’ve been broadening my beverage horizons lately for a refreshing change of pace.

After a long walk through the conservancy a few weekends ago on a particularly humid and buggy Wisconsin afternoon, I came home and whipped up this icy Cucumber Slushie in the blender. It’s thirst-quenching power blew me away! Not quite sweet and laced with rejuvenating cucumber flavor, I downed the glass within a few seconds.

I’m eager to try this same slushie concept with frozen watermelon chunks later this summer when the temperatures soar higher. As I continue on my hydration kick, these beverages have me hankering for another long, sun-drenched walk so I can try them out:

• Cinnamon Cherry Blast from Choosing Raw
• Chocolate Mint Milkshake from Diet, Dessert, and Dogs
• Watermelon Aguas Frescas from Elana’s Pantry

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Other News…

• Diane from The WHOLE Gang featured me as a Food Rock Star this week! Read the post here to learn a bit more about me. While you’re there, be sure to browse around Diane’s site for a wealth of information on healthy living and plenty of delicious recipes.
• In case you missed the news, I’m writing a cookbook! Read all about the project here. (And yes, there will be plenty of refreshing smoothie and beverage recipes in the book!)
• On Tuesday, June 28th at 6 pm, I’m teaching a Fast & Fab Fruit Desserts cooking class at Willy Street Co-op here in Middleton. If you’re local, I’d love to see you there! Contact Willy Street to sign up. We’ll be making Berry Bowls with Fudgy Almond Crumble, Strawberry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, and Banana Coconut Cupcakes. (All of the recipes are gluten- and dairy-free.)
• Daily Bites now has a Facebook fan page! Make sure you swing by and “like” the page to keep up with all of the DB updates, recipes, events, and cookbook news. Please help spread the word!

Cucumber Slushie

Serves 1

1/2 medium cucumber, peeled and roughly chopped

1 cup ice cubes

2 teaspoons agave nectar

1/2 cup water

Finely grated lime zest, to taste

Combine all of the ingredients in a blender and blend until you reach a thick, slush-like consistency. (Don’t over-blend or you’ll melt the ice and lose the slush.)