Thirsting for a Healthful Smoothie Recipe?

(NewsUSA) - Smoothies. They not only please palates but can also be a great way to whip up a little extra variety and nutrition. With creative combinations ranging from avocado-mango to pumpkin pie, there's a recipe to suit every taste preference and time of day. When prepared with lowfat or fat free milk, smoothies are a great way to include protein, calcium, vitamin D and other important nutrients in your daily diet. That's why the "National got milk? Milk Mustache Campaign" went on the search for the ultimate recipe.

Hundreds of smoothie aficionados shared their favorite creations, and Eagle, Idaho's Michelle Anderson, 40, emerged victorious. Though her essay about the role milk plays as part of her healthy lifestyle helped sway judges, it was her recipe, Avocado-Mango Smoothie, that proved love at first taste. Her unique combination blends avocado, mango, mint, vanilla bean lowfat yogurt and milk of course, creating an unexpected smoothie, packed with nutrition.

"I'm always on the lookout for ways to add nutritious food to my diet," said Anderson. "Smoothies made with milk are a terrific way to make sure my family get the calcium they need."

Michelle will receive $1,000 and the chance to have her recipe featured in the "Today's Specials" section of the October issue of Everyday Food Magazine.

"A great recipe should not only taste good and look good, but also should be good for you," says Sandy Gluck, contest judge and food editor of Everyday Food. "It's clear to see that the Avocado-Mango Smoothie not only offers great taste, but is also a fun and delicious way to incorporate fruit and more milk into your diet to help get the recommended three glasses of lowfat or fat free milk a day."

Milk is packed with nine essential nutrients, including calcium and vitamin D. Studies suggest that the nutrients in three glasses of lowfat or fat free milk a day can help maintain healthy weight. And the protein helps build lean muscle.

Go to www.whymilk.com to get the winning recipe and more smoothie creations, along with nutrition tips and tools. Also, check out www.everydayfoodmag.com and www.3aday.org for more inspiration.

"Article By: NewsUSA"