National Dairy Month in June is an ideal time to indulge in dairy products and celebrate the hardworking dairy farmers who provide delicious products for our communities.

Virginia is home to 365 dairy farms, where dedicated farmers care for their herds and produce fresh, high-quality milk every day, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service. A dairy cow produces about 8 gallons of milk per day on average.

Dairy foods like milk, yogurt and cheese are packed with essential nutrients, including protein, calcium and vitamins A and D. Research suggests that dairy consumption may help improve bone health, reduce blood pressure and lessen the risk of certain chronic diseases, according to U.S. Dairy. Regarded as “Nature’s Sports Drink” by the National Dairy Council, milk also has shown to help the body refuel, recover and rehydrate after exercise.

Enjoy wholesome dairy products this summer by incorporating them into simple, flavorful recipes—like pizza bagels or a refreshing tropical smoothie.

Curious about where your milk comes from? Visit whereismymilkfrom.com and enter the code on your dairy container.

Cottage Cheese Pizza Bagels

½ cup cottage cheese
¼ cup pizza sauce
milk, if needed for thinning
2 bagels, sliced in half
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
pinch Italian seasoning

Optional garnishes:

pepperoni
chopped spinach
diced bell peppers
diced ham

Heat oven to 400°.

In a bowl, blend the cottage cheese and pizza sauce until smooth. Add a splash of milk for a thinner sauce.

Place the bagel halves with the cut sides up on a baking sheet.

Spread a spoonful of blended cottage cheese pizza sauce on each bagel. Top with mozzarella, desired toppings and a pinch of Italian seasoning.

Bake 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

— Recipe courtesy of The Dairy Alliance

Tropical Smoothie

½ cup milk
½ cup vanilla or plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon lime juice
1 small banana, fresh or frozen
¼ cup diced fresh coconut
2 cups frozen mango chunks

Add milk, Greek yogurt, honey and lime juice to a blender. Top with banana and fresh coconut. Add the frozen mango and secure the lid.

Blend on high speed until completely smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, then blend for a few more seconds.

Pour into glasses, and garnish with a slice of lime and fresh mint, if desired. Serve immediately.

— Recipe courtesy of U.S. Dairy