At this time of year, I’m trying my hardest to wean myself and my kids off the sweet stuff (it’s been a very indulgent festive season) while really refocusing on including as many veggies in our diet as possible. One of my favourite ways to do this is with these detox ice blocks – a simple, refreshing treat that feels indulgent but is actually packed with goodness. Right now my main aim is to load as much nourishment into our meals and snacks as possible, leaving little room (or desire) for anything else. The plan is to have us all back on track in time for school to start again in a couple of weeks (read more here about why kids fall into the trap of craving processed foods).
The weather these past few weeks in QLD has been really hot and the kids have been asking for ice blocks after big mornings in the sun nipper/swim training. So I thought I’d whip something up that’s not only delicious, but helps them refuel and rehydrate. I freeze these in my low tox stainless steel iceblock moulds.
The nutrient dense veggies are well hidden behind the sweetness of the fruit. I personally don’t add in the extra sweetener, but taste the mixture prior to freezing and decide if you think you need to add it.
Health benefits
Beetroot is an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, detoxifying and extremely nutrient rich vegetable. Research suggests it improves stamina and sports performance (this fact alone appeals to my sport loving kids). Zucchini (also know as courgette), is extremely low in calories and loaded with fibre. It is also a great source of potassium.
PS – I’ve written before about using smoothies to include extra vegetables in your diet (and therefore more nourishment), read more HERE if you’d like more inspiration for ‘hiding veggies’.
Ingredients
The key ingredients in this refreshing treat include beetroot, strawberries or raspberries, banana, zucchini, and coconut water. You can customise it by adding a protein powder for an extra boost, swapping the coconut water with nut milk, or using full-fat natural yoghurt for a creamier texture. This versatile recipe can also be made without banana by using mango instead.
How to make Detox Ice Blocks
To make these healthy treats, simply blend the beetroot, berries, banana, zucchini, and coconut water in a high-speed blender until smooth. Pour the mixture into ice block molds and freeze until set. If you’re using a Thermomix, blend on speed 9 for about 60 seconds, scraping the sides as needed.
Serving suggestions and how to store
Once set, these ice blocks make a delicious and hydrating snack or treat. Store any leftovers in the freezer, and enjoy them whenever you need a refreshing detox boost. You can also make a batch ahead of time for a week’s worth of healthy snacks.
Vary Detox Ice Blocks to suit your dietary needs
This detox ice block recipe is easy to adjust for various dietary needs. For a coconut-free version, simply swap the coconut water for nut milk. If you’re looking for a creamy version, replace the coconut water with full-fat natural yogurt or coconut yogurt. You can also replace the banana with mango for a different twist, or add a scoop of clean protein powder for an extra protein boost.black pepper, lemon juice digestion immunity vitamin c flavor ice cube tray ice cubes compounds favourite way fresh
Ingredients
- 1 small beetroot -raw, peeled & quartered
- 250 g strawberries or raspberries (2 cups) fresh or frozen
- 1 banana/s
- ½ small zucchini/s -quartered
- 250 ml coconut water (1 cup)
- 85 g rice malt syrup, honey or maple syrup (¼ cup) optional
Method
- In a high powered blender, blend all of the ingredients until smooth. If using a Thermomix, 60 seconds, increasing slowly to speed 9 (scrape the sides).
- Divide between ice block moulds and freeze until set firm.
Variations
Coconut-free
Replace the coconut water with a nut milk.Make it creamy
Replace the coconut water with full-fat natural yoghurt or coconut yoghurt.No banana
Replace the banana with mango.Add Protein
I often add a scoop of a wholefoods protein powder. GoodnessMe have a fabulous selection of clean protein powders, you can take a look HERE.TIPS
- I've set these ice blocks in brilliant (and low-tox) stainless steel ice block moulds which you can shop for HERE.
- This recipe also makes a delicious smoothie (just add a cup of ice prior to blending it).
I hope your family loves this recipe. Post any questions or comments below.
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Judy says
Definitely needing some detox… soon ??
Georgia Harding says
Enjoy Judy G x
Corey says
My kids (including 4yo vege- phobe) just drank this as a smoothie…. Thankyou!
Georgia Harding says
Ah brilliant. I have quite a few sneaky veggie based smoothie recipes on the website too if you’re after trying something else. Thrilled they enjoyed it Corey G x
Paula says
Delish
anna says
So so GOOOD! made them this morning for the 44degrees day here in Melbourne! kids had 2each!!!! had to hide my smile as they obviously didn’t know they were eating zucchini & beet! Thank you so so much again Georgia! x
Georgia Harding says
Love it – you’re very welcome Anna. My son took these to nippers training at 6am every morning. I think everyone thought he had a raspberry ice block for breakfast lol!G x
Heather Harris says
These are great, my grandchildren love them. I replaced coconut water with greek yoghurt and they were a huge hit. Thanks for another fantastic recipe, Heather
Georgia Harding says
So glad they loved them. I love your substitution too, I imagine they’d be lovely and creamy that way. Thanks Heather G x
Ashley says
These are soo good! Taste just like a raspberry icy pole, but better! I didn’t have zucchini so I added some broccoli stalk. I had leftover mix so my kids had it as a smoothie for breakfast, with some added chia seeds, oats, nut butter and a little extra frozen banana. Such a winner! Thanks Georgia! ?
Georgia Harding says
Perfect and thanks for sharing your variations Ashley, they sound great G x