There is something whimsical about eating a popsicle, they seem to bring out the kid in all of us which proves, we’re never too old to engage our inner child. Whenever I have one, I revisit the summers of my childhood. All day, every day during summer, the ice cream man (as he was called back then) made his way up and down neighborhood streets enticing all who chased after with frosty cold confections. In between skipping through sprinklers, slip-and-slides, and water wiggles, I’d break away for a refreshing treat. One of my favorites—and I had many—was the rainbow pop. I remember my tongue becoming a frozen kaleidoscope of color as it made its way through the different flavors. But much to my mother’s dismay they were made with artificially flavored sugar-water. But no worries, the health benefit of these colorful pops is that because they’re made from fresh fruit, you’re consuming high fiber that translates into bioavailable nutrients of vitamin C, beta carotene along with a boat load of antioxidants, and the added coconut water—which is high in potassium— creates the perfect electrolyte to keep you well hydrated through the hot summer days ahead. The fun is in layering different flavors and textures, so be creative and mix and match your own

Recipe notes: When using citrus fruits like lemons or limes, it’s suggested to make a simple syrup from the coconut water and stevia. Depending on the fruit used, add additional stevia for desired sweetness. If preparing one flavor, double or triple recipe. Each recipe yields 2-cups of puree. FYI: Blending with frozen fruit provides a smoother sorbet consistency. Yields (12) 4-oz popsicles What you will need: Popsicle molds, wooden sticks, and blender. Active prep time: 20-minutes. Difficulty level: Very easy.

Ingredients:

Simple syrup

• 1-cup coconut water
• 1-cup Stevia

Kiwi -Lime

• 2-kiwi skinned and cubed
• 1/4-cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4-tsp lime extract (optional)

Preparation:

1. For simple syrup, warm coconut water in mircowave, add stevia and set aside.
2. In blender combine, kiwi, lime juice, simple syrup, and extract. Pulse to smooth consistency and immediately pour into molds.
3. For the the other flavors, just combine fruit and coconut water, adjust with Stevia if needed for additional sweetness

Pineapple

• 1 1/2 cups frozen pineapple
• 1/2-cup coconut water

Mango

• 1 1/2 cups frozen mango
• 1/2-cup coconut water

Mixed berry

• 1 1/2-cups frozen mixed berry
• 1/2-cup coconut water

Banana

• 1 1/2-cups sliced frozen banana
• 1/2-cup coconut water