Raise Your Glass, Relax and Enjoy; Brunch Season Has Arrived

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO and MODESTO, Calif., April 16, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Graduations, Mother's and Father's Days, spring weddings and even just the fact that it's the weekend —each of these events not only brings cause for celebration, but also the perfect opportunity to brunch. Ninety-three percent of Americans agree that breakfast is the most important of all meals[1] but brunch takes it to the next level by combining the very best parts of breakfast and lunch foods with a more relaxed atmosphere. And the over 2 million photos hashtagged with #brunch[2] on Instagram indicate our passion for this laid back meal remains unabated since it came to our shores in the 1930s³. To tap into this popular weekend activity, the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) has declared April the "unofficial" launch of brunch season with a selection of grown up smoothies to pair with any savory or sweet brunch menu.

Light, refreshing, and just a little bit indulgent, these California yogurt-based concoctions are an easy way to diversify from the standard  brunch beverage fare. From the far-off tropics and south-of-the-border, to the Italian countryside and the lush green Irish hills, these refreshing, playful beverages provide inspiration for a themed menu that will transport you and your guests across the world in a matter of a few sweet sips. 

Start with a delicious Creamy Caribbean Coconut Smoothie made with California yogurt and rum; your guests won't need a sandy beach to feel like they're in the tropics. Choose complimentary tropical fruits, salads and a build-your-own California yogurt parfait bar for an island-style brunch.

Turn your brunch into a fiesta with fresh and fruity Raspberry Creamsicle Margaritas. Serve huevos rancheros topped with crumbled California Cotija and California yogurt-based guacamole, warm tortillas and salsa to complete the south-of-the-border theme.   

If a visit to Italy is more your style, the Limoncello, Beet & Basil Boozy Smoothie will make you feel the amore. This fresh, bright drink is perfect enjoyed on the patio accompanied by a California Mozzarella caprese salad and a slice of frittata served with fresh seasonal fruit.

For a more dessert-like option, delight your guests with a decadent Irish Dream Smoothie. Your family and friends will love the blended flavors of California Yogurt, Irish whiskey, chocolate, espresso and just a leprechaun's pinch of cinnamon. Pair this creamy mixture with a traditional Irish breakfast of fried eggs, bacon and beans for a unique take on a classic.

The beauty of brunch lies in its versatility – it can be savory or sweet, elaborate or simple. All that's required is a love of food and a need to slow down. This weekend, skip going out, take a staycation and make California dairy the star of your table. Gather family and friends for inspiration and hashtag your own at-home weekend celebration with #dairybrunch and share with us @RealCalifMilk.

Weekend brunch ideas and mouth-watering dairy recipes are available at realcaliforniamilk.com

About the California Milk Advisory Board
The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state's more than 1,500 dairy families. With headquarters in South San Francisco and Modesto, the CMAB is one of the largest commodity boards in the United States. The CMAB executes advertising, public relations, research and retail and foodservice promotional programs on behalf of California dairy products, including Real California Milk and Real California Cheese. For more information and to connect with the CMAB through social media, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com, like at Facebook.com/RealCaliforniaMilk, view videos at YouTube.com/RealCaliforniaMilk, follow at Twitter.com/RealCalifMilk and Instagram.com/RealCalifMilk and pin at Pinterest.com/RealCalifMilk

[1]  St. John, Clare, M.P.H., R.D.N. Dairy Council of California, Proof Positive: Breakfast Improves Kids' Grades, Mood and Weight: http://www.healthyeating.org/Healthy-Kids/Kids-Healthy-Eating/Healthy-Meals/Article-Viewer/Article/565/Proof-Positive-Breakfast-Improves-Kids-Grades-Mood-and-Weight.aspx

[2] Statistic taken from Instagram

[3] Rombauer, Irma S.; Becker, Marion Rombauer; Becker, Ethan (2001). Joy of Cooking: All About Breakfast and Brunch. Simon and Schuster. p. 8. ISBN 0743206428.

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140415/73973 
Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130513/SF12093LOGO-b

SOURCE California Milk Advisory Board