QUICK & EASY SMOOTHIE RECIPES

With the beginning of each New Year we’re given an opportunity for reflection and resolution.

In particular, gratitude for blessings are expressed as we reflect on the concluding year and resolve with plans to better ourselves in the coming year.

In fact, it’s likely no secret that the top New Year resolutions revolve around health and fitness.

With this in mind we thought it would be fitting to share my 3 favorite smoothie recipes that have sustained me through a recent tonsillectomy recovery.

Each are loaded with healthy ingredients and can be made in just a couple of minutes.

Another smoothie you should try is my Blueberry Banana Smoothie made with superfoods.

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Are smoothies good for weight loss?

With zealous endeavors focused on health benefits, there’s no doubt many wonder if smoothies are good for weight loss. What are the healthiest things to put in a smoothie? Is it healthy to have a smoothie for breakfast?

Smoothie recipes can definitely aid in weight loss efforts assuming healthy ingredients are used, and portions are in check. Clearly there are many fruits and/or veggies that can be used to make a number of smoothie recipes. Along with using sugar free almond milk and protein powder will enhance the creamy texture, while the protein will keep your hunger at bay.

Tips for making the perfect smoothie

I like to use frozen slightly overripe bananas because it makes the smoothie a little sweeter.
Add an extra banana for a really thick smoothie.
Fresh fruit can be used but will require about 1 ½ cups of ice – This option results in a watered down smoothie…I prefer sticking to frozen fruit.
Any milk can be used. I like using unsweetened almond milk because there is NO sugar and only has 30 calories!
Protein powder, or any other supplement can be added to the smoothie. Note the supplement can alter the flavor of the smoothie. I like using protein powder by BioTrust because they’re low carb and have way less sugar than other brands. It’s also free from gluten, soy, artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors and preservatives as well as NON-GMO. (In a nutshell, it’s a much healthier option than other brands.)
½ cup of oatmeal can be added to the mixture for texture and thickness. This is a great way to include whole grains.

Creamy Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Whats needed for a creamy strawberry banana smoothie?

-unsweetened almond milk

-frozen banana

-frozen strawberries

-vanilla protein powder of your choice (This vanilla cream protein powder makes this smoothie taste like ice cream!)

-blender

NOTE: After limping along with a cracked blender and duct tape for a year, I finally gave in and bought a new blender! I’d been debating just replacing the broken pitcher, but they cost near as much as a brand new blender. So I opted for the Ninja Power Pitcher System.

So far we’ve only used it to make delicious smoothies, however it has the power of a blender, the precision of a food processor, and the power to make thick smoothie bowls and mix dough.

Clearly, I’m anxious to give these other features a try! I love a good kitchen appliance with multiple functions!

Simply add all ingredients to the pitcher and mix until smooth, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

(This Ninja even has 6 preset programs. After setting it to smoothie mode and pressing start, it blended to the perfect creamy consistency.)

Creamy Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Made with simple ingredients, this creamy Strawberry Banana Smoothie is ready in minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2

Total Time 2

Course Breakfast, Drinks, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Calories 337 kcal

Ingredients

1 frozen banana
1/2 C frozen strawberries
1 C Unsweetened Almond Milk
1 serving Vanilla Protein Powder

Instructions

Add almond milk and protein powder to blender. Slice banana and strawberries and add to blender. Pulse on High for 30 seconds to 1 minute until thick and creamy. Serve immediately.

Notes

Fresh fruit may also be used with the addition of ice cubes. This option will make a more watery smoothie. Calories are based on 1 serving of Vanilla Cream Protein Powder by BioTrust.

Keyword banana, creamy, filling, healthy, protein, smoothie, strawberry, treat

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

What’s needed for a chocolate peanut butter banana smoothie?

-unsweetened almond milk

-frozen banana

-Kroger Natural creamy peanut butter

-chocolate protein powder of your choice

-blender

NOTE: It should be noted, I like to use foods as close to their whole state as possible to avoid additives and preservatives. I’ve been using the natural peanut butter by Kroger for a couple of years now. I love the rich peanut taste and creamy texture. You can’t go wrong when the ingredients list only contains peanuts and salt! No hydrogenated oil or sugar here!

Similarly, add all ingredients and again blend until smooth.

(For this smoothie, I used the Power Nutri Cup that comes with the blender system. It makes for an easy dump and go breakfast, allowing it to mix in the cup itself. After mixing simply unscrew the blades and attach to-go lid! Who doesn’t want less clean up?)