Mango Mint Lassi Smoothie with Turmeric

As a kid, I absolutely loved getting a mango lassi every time my family went out to eat indian food. My grandmother never made this a home, so we only got it when we went out. It was always so refreshing. I remember thinking, 'they must sit there juicing and pureeing the mangos with great care' (it always took so long to get after I ordered it - I guess everything always seems long as a kid).

It was always well worth the wait.  Each time it was my turn to order I couldn't wait to tell the waiter, "one mango lassi, please!"... that was until I learned many Indian restaurants pour it from a processed bottle (at least in Tucson, AZ they do). It totally broke my heart and took the nostalgia out of it, but I still love the drink!

This is a my healthy take on one of my favorite childhood drinks,  Indian Mango Lassi. A Mango Lassi is typically made with mango, milk, sugar, and yogurt. I've substituted with yogurt with greek yogurt for more protein and added turmeric, not just because it's orange too, but because  1) we know, I am obsessed with Turmeric and it's health benefits, and 2) I put it in every smoothie or recipe any chance I get. This smoothie makes for a great breakfast  or dessert shake. 

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Mango Lassi Smoothie Recipe with Mint & Turmeric

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for vegan options, try soy yogurt)
• 2 cups almond milk
• 1/2 cup diced mango, fresh or frozen
• 1 inch piece of fresh turmeric
• 1 tsp of ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp of cinnamon
• Pinch of fennel
• 1 tablespoon raw honey or coconut nectar (optional)
• 1-2 tablespoons/sprig of mint