When you need a refreshing treat that's good for you, make these healthy ice pops. All you need are four ingredients—oranges, carrot juice, fresh strawberries, and fresh ginger. They are dairy free and have no added sugar, plus they're packed with beta-carotene, the antioxidant-like orange pigment found in carrots that helps fight inflammation and cancer-causing free radicals. But it's not their health benefits that will have your kids reaching for these pops; it's the vibrant orange color and bright, citrusy flavor.
You'll like that they are simple to make: You'll have them in the freezer in 15 minutes—and everyone will be counting down the time until they are frozen and ready to eat.
Ingredients
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2 oranges, peels and piths removed
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1 cup carrot juice (such as Lakewood Organic)
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2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved
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2 to 3 teaspoons chopped fresh ginger
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Small pinch of kosher salt
Directions
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Peel and chop oranges:
Using a sharp knife, remove and discard peels and piths of oranges; chop fruit and discard seeds.
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Blend ingredients:
Place in a blender with carrot juice, hulled and halved strawberries, chopped fresh ginger, and a small pinch of kosher salt; process until smooth.
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Pour into molds and freeze:
Pour into ice-pop molds; freeze at least 4 hours.
Variation
Rather than freezing the mixture in ice-pop molds, you can serve it over ice as carrot-orange-ginger juice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do ice pops take to freeze?
Generally ice pops need four to six hours to freeze solid. We suggest you make them in the morning to enjoy that afternoon or make them in the evening to have the next day.
Why won't my ice pops freeze?
There are a few reasons why ice pops might not freeze:
- Your freezer may not be cold enough. Check that it is at 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
- If your freezer is too full, this can slow the airflow and cause ice pops to freeze more slowly or not freeze at all.
- If your pops include alcohol, this can inhibit the freezing process (and so can too much fat, sugar, or oil).
Are ice pops hydrating?
Ice pops help with hydration. Homemade ice pops that are low in sugar and do not contain preservatives or food coloring are a great treat to turn to. They can help you stay cool and hydrated.