Monday, 24 October 2011

In the spotlight - Bananas

A few banana facts:
  • Bananas are the most popular fruit in the world and in the UK alone we eat more than 14 million each day!
  • Ecquador is the largest exporter of bananas.
  • Bananas are packed with nutrients - they are rich in fibre, Vitamin B6 and C, as well as potassium.
  • Not only do they make a tasty on the go snack, but bananas are great chopped into your morning cereal or served with custard for a dessert.
  • Not just for eating, a banana can be made into a face mask. Mash a small banana until smooth, apply to your skin and leave for 15 minutes before washing off with warm water.

A couple of recipes you might like to try:

Banana ice lolly
  • This one is a bit of a cheat, as there's no preparation or cooking involved!
  • Simply peel a banana, wrap it in foil and place in the freezer. 
  • After a few hours you've got a healthy snack to enjoy.  

Banana breakfast smoothie (serves 1)

  • This breakfast in a glass will keep you going till lunchtime and counts for 3 of your 5 A Day.
  • If you don't eat dairy produce for any reason, simply replace the yoghurt with a soya alternative.
  • For any vegan followers, the honey could be replaced with syrup or simply be omitted.
  • Peel and slice a ripe banana.
  • Peel, core and slice a juicy pear. Alternatively use 2 tinned pear halves.
  • Measure out 25g/1oz oats, 1tsp honey, 100g natural yoghurt and 150ml apple juice.
  • Blend all ingredients till smooth. Pour and enjoy!

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