Smoothies Can Be Nutritious and Feel Indulgent!

The sun is shining. The air is warmer. It must be that time of year again—smoothie time! While a smoothie can be had any time, it can be a refreshing, energizing way to start your day. Blending fruit, vegetables, and a protein source can make breakfast quick, simple, yummy, and easy to take with you while running out the door to tackle life.

A smoothie can be a great source of nutrition. Many foods can be included, and not even tasted— like kale, hard boiled eggs, and avocado. Other ingredients may be added specifically to create a certain taste—like chocolate. Bananas are a great option to sweeten smoothies naturally. Ingredient substitutions can be made fairly easily (types of milk, protein sources, and fruit), which makes smoothies easy to customize.

Energy Smoothie -This will get you energized AND fill you up.

Makes 1 serving Total prep time –5 minutes Ingredients: 1/2 cup fresh or frozen sliced strawberries 1 banana 1 cup skim milk or fortified soy milk 3 tablespoons wheat germ 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Directions: Place all ingredients in blender and blend on high speed until smooth.

Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips: You can add flax seeds or protein powder for an additional nutrient boost. Be creative! © Food and Health Communications

Sweet Starts—This will make you feel indulgent.

Ingredients:

Makes 1 serving Total prep time—5 minutes

1 banana 2/3 cup of Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla) 2 tablespoons of peanut butter Chocolate syrup to taste (Blend in or drizzle in after)

Directions:

Place all ingredients in blender and blend on high speed until smooth. Serve immediately.

Peachy Keen—Tastes like summer.

Makes 1 serving Total prep time—5 minutes

Ingredients:

1 banana 1/2 cup of frozen peaches 1/4 cup of frozen cherries 2/3 cup of Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla) 1/3 cup of spinach or kale

Directions:

Place all ingredients in blender and blend on high speed until smooth. Serve immediately.