There’s nothing better in the middle of the holiday season rush than a refreshing smoothie as a pick-me-up.  Taking advantage of seasonal fruit, this delicious drink will wake you right out of any afternoon slump, post-party blahs, or sugar crash you’re experiencing.

Grab an organic apple, a handful of cranberries (or lingonberries) add some ginger, dates and flax, and top it off with plain yogurt, kefir or buttermilk and blend it up.  Share half with a friend or save it for later – this is just the thing to get you through the last of your Christmas shopping or card writing session.  We just finished writing up a big pile of cards over here with a few more to go.  Christmas shopping is on the final leg, the tree is up, and the house is as decorated as it’s going to be.

The holiday baking begins tomorrow.  I’ll be needing another round of smoothies to keep my hands out of the cookie jar, no doubt about it.  This is sure to be a seasonal favorite in my house.

Cranberry Apple Ginger Smoothie

2 cups kefir, plain yogurt or buttermilk
1 organic apple, washed and cored, peel left on
1/2 cup / 1 dl fresh or frozen cranberries or lingonberries
1″ / 2.5″ piece ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
4 fresh dates, pits removed
2 tablespoons ground flaxseed

Combine all the ingredients in a blender jar if using a blender or in a bowl if using an immersion blender.  Blend until completely combined and smooth.  Divide between two glasses.  Enjoy the energy surge.

Serves 2