The archetypal frozen coffee drink of our generation is the Starbucks Frappuccino. It's cold, it's chocolately, it's caffeinated, and it's so crazy good. But it's also upwards of five smackers for a large glass, not to mention 400 calories. And also, not very organic. Satisfy all of the above by being your own barista. This organic Frappuccino recipe gets all the right without much of the wrong. 

Observing a barista whip together a specially crafted espresso drink can feel a little like watching a magician. A little bit of steam, some fancy arm movements and suddenly a perfect creamy latte with just a hint of foam appears ready for you to enjoy.

Unfortunately those lattes from your favorite java spots can start to add up budget-wise. The disposable cups, lids and sleeves used to hold the drinks also contribute to unnecessary waste.

So can you pull off the same coffee magic at home? Absolutely. Making a latte at home takes just a few simple steps. No elaborate machines needed.

Take advantage of two seasonal ingredients available wherever you’re living — fresh mint and clementines. Infused in vodka, the resulting spirit is an invigorating, fruity mixer perfect for winter warming cocktails.

Check out this healthy, simple recipe for fresh, creamy almond milk. It's delicious and good for you—it has tons of protein and fiber!

Ingredients:

1 cup raw almonds or cashews
3 cups water
Sugar or sweetener, to taste

This creamy, sweet festive drink is pure holiday comfort. Your family won't believe it's dairy-free and actually good for you!

Serves 4

Ingredients:

2 cups Almond Cream*, unsweetened
1/2 cup date paste (dates blended with a little water)
2 Tbsp grade B maple syrup
2 frozen bananas
2 tsp flax seed oil (*optional)
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp nutmeg plus additional for sprinkling
1/4 tsp cinnamon

In this remarkably multifaceted martini, a few teensy slivers of jalapeno transform what would be a tasty but ho-hum strawberry margarita into a modern classic. And while you're sipping, try this trick: Concentrate on the taste of each individual ingredient, and you will be able to transport the jalapeno from the merest suggestion of heat to center stage.

• 2 organic strawberries, hulled
• 4 slivers peeled and seeded organic jalapeno chile
• 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed organic lemon juice

This unusual sangria is perfect for any summer party and will keep your guest guessing. Serve sangria in a glass serving pitcher or punch bowl.

6-8 Servings

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups of water
1/2 cup of sugar
24 medium organically grown rose scented geranium leaves*
2 bottles of chilled dry rose wine - I recommend Silver Mountain Vineyards Rose of Pinot Noir
1 blood orange, thinly sliced
1 lemon, thinly sliced
1 pint of fresh raspberries or blackberries, or a combination of the two, washed
1 pint of strawberries, washed, hulled and thinly sliced
6-8 cups of sparkling water or club soda if desired