As of last night, and due to sheer boredom, I discovered what I believe to be the most fantastic, simplest recipe out there for making a quick, rich, flavorful smoothie while keeping the sugar in check.

One of my favorite tools in the kitchen is the Hamilton Beach Single Serve blender that you can find at Walmart for between $10 and $15 depending on the sales.  I use mine daily to mix up Slim Fast shakes.

In this recipe, you’ll need three things;

• 1 single-serve packet of sugar free kool-aid mix for 16.9 oz bottles (flavor of your choice)
• ice
• Milk (I choose 2%, but the thickness of the shake will vary on your choice)

In the blender cup, pour the kool-aid mix, add ice to fill, then add milk to cover the ice.  Blend until smooth enough for you.

Alternatives

You can also add fruit if you like, such as berries or my personal favorite, pineapple but I would recommend that you either add them on top of the ice, or better yet, do so about 1/2 way through the quick blending process to keep them from being totally blended.

I’ve tried both Hawaiian Punch sugar-free (both Punch and Orange flavors) with great success, as well as Crystal light lemonade and yes, even raspberry tea — if you’re in the mood.