Detoxify the Las Ventanas way!
Prickly cactus may seem like a strange ingredient for a smoothie, but the spa staff at Las Ventanas al Paraiso resort in Los Cabos, Mexico, begs to differ. In fact, their überpopular Nopal Cactus Smoothie has proven to be a triple threat: pretty to look at, delicious to drink, and loaded with detoxifying, skin-smoothing nutrients. “The cactus contains a lot of vitamin C, E and K, which provides nourishment for the skin and bones,” explains Las Ventanas’ Chef Victor Palma.
The smoothie’s combination of mildly tart cactus fruit, sweet oranges and refreshing basil is enticing enough to set mouths to watering, but perhaps even more enticing is its rumored cellulite-zapping powers. That’s right, in addition to supporting healthy cholesterol levels and stabilizing the blood’s glucose, this fiber-rich drink may prove helpful in sustaining beach-ready bodies throughout the year! Beachside or not, though, the detoxifying effects of Nopal cactus—which has been used for medicinal purposes in Mexico for many years—make this smoothie a natural complement to just about any spa service. —Carolyn Meers
Nopal Cactus Smoothie
Serves 1
Ingredients:
100 gms. cactus paddle (baby)
5 oz. fresh orange juice
5 gms. fresh basil
1 1/2 oz. honey
2 oz. soy milk
1 1/2 oz. natural yogurtPlace all of the ingredients into a blender, add 3 to 4 ice cubes and mix well until smoothie achieves a uniform texture. Serve chilled.
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