SMOOTHIE2I find it baffling how many people are still intimidated by the idea of making their own healthy smoothies. They think it takes a special skill or knowledge base. This couldn’t be further from the truth. It is really one of the simplest and best things you could do for yourself.  Recipes are easy as 1, 2, 3.. and the result is an awesome nutritionally packed drink that can fuel your body for hours; not to mention, it will save you quite a bit of dough. So ditch the morning bagel or bottled processed juice and revitalize yourself right at home.. All you need is a blender, and some of your favourite ingredients!

A great base for any smoothie is a liquid (water, milk, juice), bananas and ice (for that rich texture). You can also omit the ice and use avocado instead of banana for a  slightly less thick or sweet base, that’s also rich in healthy fats. If you are using a fruit juice as your base liquid- make sure it is fresh natural juice, and try cutting it with coconut water. Coconut water is a super hydrating, low calorie drink filled with electrolytes. So weather you’re craving a refreshing green juice, a post workout recovery drink, or a more decadent smoothie to satisfy your sweet tooth, the possibilities are endless…

Here are three simple recipes to get you started. Think of these as guidelines- You can play around with amounts, ingredients, and add superfood supplements like spirulina, maca, matcha or chia seeds. (remember these from my (previous post on superfoods)


Power Green Smoothie
A great hydrating breakfast smoothie to wake you up!

  • 1 1/2 cups apple juice
  • 2 cups spinach or kale – stemmed and chopped
  • 1 apple – unpeeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1/2 avocado, chopped
  • 1 TBSP Chia Seeds or Hemp Seeds (optional)

 

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Protein Smoothie

Tastes like a Peanut Butter Cup-but builds your health instead of wrecking it!

  • 1 Cup Almond Milk (Unsweetened)
  • 1 Banana – Frozen is best
  • 1 TBSP Organic Peanut Butter
  • 1 Scoop Plant Based Chocolate Protein Powder (Such as VEGA)
  • 1 tsp Cacao Nibs (Optional)
  • 1 tsp Himalayan Sea Salt


Antioxidant Berry Smoothie
An amped up classic berry smoothie- super fuel your body!

  • ½ cup Cranberry Juice
  • ½ Cup Coconut Water
  • ¼ Cup Ice
  • ½ Cup Blueberries – Frozen
  • ½ Cup Bananas – Frozen
  • 1 tsp Matcha Green Tea Powder

My favorite protein powders are VEGA and Sunwarrior. These are solid plant-based protein powders that are soy and dairy free. While not always necessary (You can add protein to your smoothies with hemp, chia, flax seeds, nut butters and a number of other ingredients), they can offer a boost of protein post-workout or for those who have trouble getting enough protein into their diets; which is often the case for vegetarians/vegans.

Happy Blending! If you have any rockstar smoothie combinations, email them to me, or share them on my Facebook or Twitter pages for a chance to be featured on the blog!!