Delicious Smoothies

Summer is coming and things are heating up! Let’s talk Smoothies.  I can’t seem to get enough… they are quick, easy and satisfy any healthy appetite!  I usually make them in the morning for breakfast but they are slowly creeping into my nightly routine as well.  Now all smoothies are not created equal in my world…depends on my level of activity.  The calories can add up quick, so I limit the ingredients especially at night.  Here are a few of my favorite recipes…I suggest a really a good blender especially when using greens. It makes a huge difference.  

You can certainly add more liquid to any of the recipes depending on the desired thickness….it’s a personal preference.  Just have fun and get creative!

I buy most of my stuff from Costco, it saves a bundle especially the frozen fruit.  Everyone has their favorite protein powder but I switch between the following two: Garden of Life – RAW Protein Powder Unflavored & Sunwarrior - Warrior Blend Natural.  

I will list them from light (snack) to what I consider a meal!!!

Strawberry Kiwi Green Smoothie:

1 kiwi, peeled

½ cup of organic frozen strawberries

1 lemon squeezed

2 cups of spinach or baby kale

5 basil leaves

1 cup coconut water

Orange Smoothie:

1 cup orange juice – You can fresh squeeze or cheat & buy from Trader Joe's

1 cup carrot juice – Again, Trader Joe's carries fresh carrot juice that is decent

1 scoop protein powder

1 cup frozen mango

5 basil leaves or fresh mint

Summer Is Coming Smoothie:

1 cup frozen mango or mixed berries

2 cups spinach

1 teaspoon organic flax seeds

1 teaspoon unsweetened coconut flakes

½ banana

1 cup coconut water

Clean Smoothie:

1 cup frozen mixed berries

2 lemons squeezed

1 hunk of fresh ginger

1 scoop of flax seeds

2 cups spinach

1 cup of coconut water

Peanut Butter & Jelly Smoothie:

5 raw almonds

½ cup low fat plain Greek yogurt

1 scoop protein powder

1 cup organic frozen strawberries

2 tablespoons of PB2 (powdered peanut butter) or peanut butter

Stevia if you prefer a bit sweet or agave nectar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup of unsweetened almond milk

Mango & Avocado Smoothie: This one reminds me of ice cream 

1 half avocado

1 cup frozen mango

½ cup low fat plain Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon unsweetened coconut

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Stevia if you prefer a bit sweet or agave nectar

1 scoop protein powder

2 cups of spinach

1 cup of unsweetened almond milk

BeastMode Smoothie:

1 banana

½ cup low fat plain Greek yogurt

1 cup frozen mixed berries

1 scoop protein powder

1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter

1 cup of unsweetened almond milk

Enjoy the recipes….remember there are no rules - just have fun!

Update on the exercise front:

I experienced my first running set back this past week.  I purchased a new pair of running shoes and got sold a super “racy” version that was completely unfit for my body type and running abilities (although they did look cool, they damn near killed me).  I logged about 10 miles with them and my right knee started to feel tight with this awful popping action.  I backed off the running this week and it is starting to feel much better… after a bit of research, numerous trips to Road Runner Sports and talking with a friend, it appears the shoes were the culprit.  My plans are to hit the streets again next week for a light test run. This time in a pair of Asics stability shoe.  Finger crossed!

I did manage to stay active doing spin, light walking and strength training.  On Sunday, I am going to give swimming a try…keep you posted!   The hardest part for me has been mental.  The saying holds true, “you always want what you can’t have”.  The only activity my brain craved this week was an early morning therapy run….I will be out there soon enough pounding the pavement and getting back to what I love!  Recovery comes first or the down time only gets longer! At least this what I have been told and these days, I listen!

Have an awesome weekend!