I doubt that I would have remembered this holiday, had a Facebook memory not popped up. Today is National Strawberry Sundae Day. In the past, if I was aware of this day at all, I drove through Andy’s Frozen Custard and picked up a strawberry sundae to celebrate. That’s what my Facebook memory was about. I wrote up a blog post about that sweet treat.
I haven’t been to Andy’s in a year. Although I thought I would miss frozen custard, after switching to a plant based lifestyle, I have not. I used to routinely reward myself with this sugar laden treat, which was more an indicator of my unhealthy relationship with food than a desire for joyful celebration.
Being reminded that this was one of those quirky holidays prompted me to think about how much healthier I am this year, in my body and in my relationship with food. Having frozen bananas on hand, I felt inspired to make an easy, healthy version of a strawberry sundae. I felt I truly do have something to celebrate, and this wholesome treat provided a great contrast to the kinds of foods I used to consume.
The recipe couldn’t be more simple. Slice up very ripe bananas, and freeze in a single layer in the freezer. Store there in gallon sized bags until ready to use.
I have made banana “ice dream” using a blender and a food processor. The process is much easier and the nice dream much smoother, using the food processor. Add frozen banana slices, from 2-4 bananas, to the processor, and blend on high. Stop as necessary to stir, pushing unprocessed banana slices away from the sides.
The change happens suddenly. Those frozen chunks of banana become a smooth, creamy mixture with a texture similar to soft serve frozen custard. You can add 1/2 a teaspoon of vanilla extract, if desired. No sweetener is necessary. Mixture can be stored in the freezer for an hour, for a firmer texture or eaten immediately.
In honor of the national holiday, I added fresh sliced strawberries, with nothing else added. This treat is simple, tasty, creamy, healthy and guilt free. This banana nice dream is the basic recipe. Other frozen fruit can be blended with the bananas to create an endless variety of cold, frosty treats perfect for warm summer evenings. Top with fresh fruit, nuts, organic coconut or blend together dates with a little water for a delicious sauce.
I savored my strawberry sundae this evening, after a veggie and rice dinner. Such a treat allows me to remain focused on celebration, rather than falling prey to the feelings of regret that I used to experience after eating something that I knew was detrimental to my health.
And what did I celebrate? Banana nice dream and strawberries, healthy choices, and feelings of joy accompanied by deep gratitude for this journey that is never dull or mundane or bland. Happy Strawberry Sundae Day. Happy Day.
