Smoothies are a perfect meal. When you are on the run and needing some good nourishment, they can be made in a matter of minutes. There are so many varieties, from yogurt smoothies to the increasingly popular green smoothies. They can be done in any blender but it helps if you have a high quality blender than can give it that desirable smooth consistency.
There really is a recipe for everyone and every situation. The following all taste great, and each has its own health benefits. If you have a big appetite, but only a few minutes to spare, read on.
1. Oats and Cinnamon Breakfast Smoothie
This smoothie is delicious and has the right combination of carbohydrates and protein to give you the energy boost you need when the morning arrives. Blend and drink it in your car on the way to work when you don’t have time to prepare a hot breakfast.
Ingredients:
* Protein powder, 2 scoops
* 2 bananas
* 2 tbsp oats, rolled
* 1/2 cup water, cold
* 1 cup milk of your choice
* 1 tsp honey
* 1/4 tsp cinnamon
* 4 ice cubes
Instructions:
Blend ingredients together until smooth and drink.
2. Tropical Green Smoothie
Green smoothies have become very popular lately, and it’s no wonder when you realize what a powerhouse they are. Combining delicious flavor with a natural source of nutrients and vitamins, green smoothies are one of the easiest way to get your daily dose of fruits and veggies.
Ingredients:
* 2 cups spinach, raw
* 2 bananas
* 1 mango
* 1 cup fresh pineapple
* 2 cups water
Instructions:
Blend and enjoy.
3. Orange Cream Smoothie
If you are craving a creamsicle, this is a nice healthy way to get your fill. This smoothie is perfect for a hot summer day on the patio.
Ingredients:
* 1 orange with skin removed
* 2 tbsp orange juice concentrate, frozen
* 1/4 cup yogurt
* 1/4 tsp vanilla
* 4 ice cubes
Instructions:
Blend until smooth.
4. Chocolate Cherry Power Smoothie
This smoothie will satisfy your craving for decadent ice cream, with an added boost of protein. Including a handful of spinach that is barely noticeable taste-wise, it’s a great way to sneak some green veggies into you and your family’s diet.
Ingredients:
* 1 cup your choice of milk
* 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
* 1/2 banana, frozen
* 6-8 frozen cherries
* 1 handful spinach
* 1 cup ice cubes
* Optional: 1 tsp ground flax seeds, 1 tsp chia seeds
Instructions:
Put ingredients into blender and process until smooth.
5. The Green Detox
This green smoothie is a great way to end a week of holiday overindulging, or after a long day of work. The cucumber aids in reducing water retention, and the pears and orange juice add sweetness.
Ingredients:
* 2 cups spinach, raw
* 1/2 large cucumber
* 2 pears (medium size)
* 1-1/2 cups orange juice
* 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
Instructions:
Blend and consume.
6. Berry Good Smoothie
This is an easy and delicious alternative to the sugar-filled slushy drinks that are so popular in North America. Berries are delicious and full of great health benefits. Blueberries have one of the highest antioxidant capacities among all fruit, which helps fight harmful free radicals in the body.
Ingredients:
* 1 cup blueberries (substitute blackberries, raspberries or strawberries if preferred)
* 1 small banana
* 1 cup apple juice
Instructions:
Put ingredients into blender and mix until smooth.
As you can see, it doesn’t take a lot of time to whip up a healthful and tasty smoothie. After you’ve made a few, you may be inclined to try some new ingredients and create your own personal recipes. Try one now, and enjoy.