Smoothies

I know that smoothies hardly require a recipe, or much discussion at all. They are usually no-brainers. Just dump some fruit and or vegetables, milk or juice, and any number of other additions in the blender. Blend until smooth, of course, and enjoy. Even so, I wanted to share a few thoughts and suggestions on one of my favorite breakfast, lunch or afternoon snack.

As you can see from the photo above, smoothies can be filled with all kinds of healthy ingredients. I've been known to add avocado, basil, buttermilk and other less conventional options that I have on hand, but the formula (if I have one) is usually some fruit, some yogurt, and some sort of protein, usually nuts or seeds. I know green smoothies are really popular but I rarely add spinach or kale to my drinks. I believe that they are healthier to eat cooked because our bodies can digest and use their nutrition better.

A few other smoothie suggestions: using some frozen fruit makes for a nicely chilled drink, otherwise you could add ice cubes. If everything is frozen it can be hard to blend but if you add more liquid you should be all set. I don't always have bananas on hand but they are great for making a creamier smoothie and balancing the tartness of berries. Juice works well for this, too, but I am prone to adding yogurt and milk because I like the contrast of creamy and tart. Mason jars make perfect travel mugs for smoothies and I have often brought one with me when I need something extra to get me through the morning or the whole day.

I'm sure I don't need to tell you any thing else about how to make your smoothies. You probably have lots of ideas of your own. What are your favorite ingredients or combinations? A few of my recent favorite recipes are below.

P.S. I really like this idea, but my blender is all one piece so I haven't tried it.




Banana Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie
If none of your ingredients are frozen, I recommend adding a few ice cubes to this one so it is nicely chilled.

1 banana
1 heaping tablespoon cocoa
2 tablespoons peanut butter (or nut butter of your choice)
1 cup yogurt or milk of your choice (if using yogurt you may need more liquid) 
unsweetened, shredded coconut, optional

Makes about 2 cups

Blueberry Ginger Smoothie

1 cup blueberries (they can be fresh, but frozen work very well)
1 medium carrot
1 teaspoon fresh ginger
1 banana
1/2 cup yogurt
1 cup milk, juice or liquid of your choice
handful of almonds (optional)

Makes about 3 cups