Smoothies

I've been drinking a smoothie for breakfast for about the past two months now.  I'm amazed at how full I am and that it keeps me going through the morning.

Like many of my posts, I'm all about eating healthy.  Well truthfully, my motto is "Everything in moderation".  These smoothies pack a punch of nutrients and healthful ingredients. 

The great thing about a smoothie is you can add any ingredients, combinations and flavours that you like.  Don't like strawberries, then substitute mango.  Don't like peanut butter, go for an almond butter instead.  Lactose intolerant, use an almond or coconut milk instead.  The sky is the limit here!

Here are a few of my favourite combinations.  Please note I don't measure so my measurements below are 'guesstimates' only.  You'll soon find what combinations and measurements work for you.

I use the never-fail MAGIC BULLET for my smoothies.  Super quick and easy for those weekday mornings.  A blender or juicer would work too.

My favourite smoothie:

• 1/2 cup coconut milk (or substitute any soy, almond, 1% milk)
• 1 heaping Tbsp organic natural peanut butter
• 1/2 to 1 whole banana
• 1 heaping tsp ground flax seed
• 1 Tbsp hemp seeds
• 1 scoop protein powder (if you have it)
• some kale or spinach (trust me you can't taste it!)
• 3-4 ice cubes

Whirl away until smooth and frothy.  Sip and enjoy!

Other Options:
- substitute the peanut butter with 1/3 to 1/2 cup of blueberries or strawberries. 
- substitute the peanut butter with 1/2 cup of mango or peaches

Blueberry Smoothie

The great thing about smoothies is the sky is the limit.  Put in what you like and omit what you don't.

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Tips:

1. I use fresh fruit when it's in season and frozen fruit when fresh fruit isn't available (meaning local).
2. I use fresh or frozen kale or spinach.  Whenever I have leftover kale or spinach, freeze it in little ziploc bags.  This way I don't waste it and I always have some for my smoothies.  I'll repeat, if you only put in a few leaves, you don't taste it at all.  Although I must admit that it does sometimes turn my smoothie a strange brownish/greyish colour, which isn't all that appetizing.  If you don't like the colour, simply don't put it in.
3. Hemp seeds pack a nutritional punch and add protein to keep you fuller longer.  They are widely available at bulk food places (e.g. Bulk Barn) as well as Costco. 
4. I keep my ground flax seed and hemp seed in the freezer so they don't spoil.