Vegan MOFO: Soupy Sales Saturday–Peachy-Keen-Arino Chilled Soup

Soupy Sales was an old-school slapstick comedian. I'm sure I first saw him in his later years on shows like What's My Line? or Hollywood Squares. He hosted many a radio or TV show from the 1950s on through the 1980s. One early show was called "Lunch with Soupy" and an evening show called "Soup's On." He was famous for throwing cream pies (or getting one in the face himself). Only the frozen one did any damage. (See Wikipedia for more Soupy info.)

I remember him as a funny guy with a big smile on his face. He passed away in 2009 at the age of 83. I hope he had a great run at life and enjoyed the fun he brought to others.

In researching his name, ironically, I found that it's quite the un-vegan nickname! His older brothers had been nicknamed "Ham-bone" and "Chicken-bone" and he was given the nickname "Soup-bone" which was later shortened to "Soupy."

Well, fear not vegan friends, I will include no bones in my recipes or any Soupy Sales Saturday creations (soups and pies, maybe?). Just maybe a funny-bone or two.

The names of a couple of Soupy's characters are inspiring me with meal ideas. There's "Peaches" his girlfriend (played by him in drag) and Onions Oregano, a stinky-breathed henchmen. Today, I think I'll go with Peaches...

Peachy-Keen-Arino Chilled Soup
(adapted from a Whole Foods recipe)  
6-8 servings

6 large ripe peaches 
2 1/2 cups water 
1/2 cup apple or orange juice 
1/8 cup agave 
2 drops liquid Stevia  
1 lime, zest and juice of 
Salt and pepper to taste 

Optional: Some powdered or freshly grated ginger. 

Mint sprigs or orange peels for garnish.

My own easier directions: Put all ingredients in your Vitamix and blend away. Chill and serve. Or replace 1/2 cup of water with 1/2 cup ice cubes and serve right away. (The Whole Foods instructions have you blanch the peaches and take the skin off. I think there are plenty of nutrients in that skin!)

Smoothie Alternative: For 2 Smoothie Servings: Reduce all ingredients by half (omit salt and pepper) and use only 1 cup water and a few ice cubes for a refreshing Smoothie. 

Paleo/AIP: Omit sweeteners and juice. Maybe throw in a couple dates when blending. If your peach skin is bitter, peel peaches first.