Apricot Goji Gelato

I often get sweet cravings at night, when I really shouldn’t be eating at all. We were lucky enough to find apricots at a local orchard just a couple days before. So I made this as a way to satisfy my sweet tooth while making sure I wasn’t taxing my digestive system before I went to bed. This scrumptious, fruity, slightly tart gelato is so incredibly nutritious you can indulge all you want without feeling guilty.

Apricots are very high in beta-carotene, which your body needs in order to produce vitamin A. They are also a good source of vitamin C and vitamins B2, B3, and 5. They provide nutrients that help support your immune system, are a great source of anti-oxidants, as well as fiber. They also provide calcium, iron and zinc.

Goji berries are a nutritionally-dense superfood. Among other things they contain more protein than any other fruit. You can read more about the health benefits of goji berries here.

Ingredients:
2 bananas, peeled and frozen
50 g dried goji berries, soaked overnight
4 fresh apricots, stones removed

Instructions:
Drain goji berries and reserve the soak water. Break banana into 3-4 pieces and add to blender. Add apricots and goji berries to blender. Blend until smooth, adding goji soak water a little at a time if needed. Drink any extra, it’s delicious and nutritious, and will keep for several days in the fridge.

Kitchen tips:
I always try to keep frozen bananas on hand. They are great in smoothies, as a base for raw vegan ice cream (or gelato) and it’s a great way to deal with ripe bananas. I try to find bananas on special, and then buy up big time, or order a whole box of organic bananas at wholesale prices. Freezing them is a great way to preserve them until you need them.

Goji berries are better soaked over night, but in a pinch you could soak them for a couple of hours before making this dessert.

Serves 2-4

Related posts:

• The Health Benefits of Goji Berries
• Banana Blueberry Ice Dream
• Green Smoothie of the Day