Moroccan Fruit Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup dried apricots
• chopped
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 large banana
• 6 strawberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 quart fresh orange juice
• Mint sprigs
• for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, soak the apricots in the water until softened, 20 minutes.
2. Drain and transfer to a blender.
3. Add the banana, strawberries, sugar and vanilla and pulse until chopped.
4. Add half of the orange juice and puree until smooth.
5. Pour into a pitcher and stir in the remaining orange juice.
6. Refrigerate until very cold, about 2 hours.
7. Serve the smoothie in small glasses garnished with mint.