Summer treats: Mango Lassi & Berry Parfait

Mango Lassi (Indian Yogurt Smoothie)

1.5 cups mango pulp or 2 peeled mangoes (preferably the yellow variety)

2 cups plain yogurt, kefir or buttermilk

½ cup water or ice

½ tsp cardamom powder (grind seeds from 2-3 green pods)

Combine all in a blender, run for 30 seconds. Note: The cardamom is optional; feel free to omit it or try out cinnamon instead. Water content can be varied and sugar added to taste. 

Plant milk could be used in place of yogurt, but it won’t be as creamy and lemon juice will need to be added to give some tanginess.  

Berry Parfait

This instant ice-cream-like desert could not be simpler or healthier.

1-1.5 cups fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries or strawberry pieces)

1 lb frozen berries or fruit (mango chunks, bananas, peaches, strawberries, etc.)

3 Tbsp honey or sugar

1 cup plain yogurt or plant milk

Handful of mint or 1/2 tsp freshly ground cardamom (optional but very tasty)

Lemon or lime juice, to taste (will need this if you used non-tangy fruits and berries)

Scoop half of the fresh berries into each serving cup, reserving the other half for layering or just placing on top of the frozen part. Blend the other ingredients and divide evenly among the cups.