3 Fruity Recipes to Try on National Smoothie Day
Sipping on an icy-cold, healthy fruit smoothie is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy a hot summer day. And, since June 21 is National Smoothie Day , it’s a great time to celebrate with a flavorful treat.
If you’re not able to make your way to La Habra’s Nektar Juice Bar or even Jamba down the road, try making your own yummy smoothie. The best part about making your own smoothie is that you can customize your refreshment to increase your protein intake, sneak more veggies into your meals, or even just enjoy a little sweet dinner indulgence. Here are some inspirational recipes to help get your smoothie-blending juices flowing.
Protein-Packed Options
If you’re seeking ways to incorporate regular smoothies into your diet as a meal replacement, make sure those drinks are packed with protein to keep you full until your next meal. You can add protein in a variety of forms, including Greek yogurt, chia or hemp seeds, protein powders, milk, and nut butters. Here’s a yummy smoothie recipe from Men’s Health Magazine sure to keep you satisfied all morning.
Chocolate, Peanut Butter, and Banana Smoothie
Blend the following:
- 12 ounces of Greek yogurt
- 2 scoops chocolate-flavored protein powder
- 1 banana
- 1 cup of spinach
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon cacao nibs or dark cocoa powder
Veggie-Infused Recipes
Trying to find ways to add more healthy veggies into your diet but can’t quite stomach steamed broccoli or brussels sprouts? Smoothies are a great way to sneak those daily servings of vitamin-rich vegetables into either your meals or the meals of your picky children. Spinach—rich in vitamins K, A, C, and more—is always an easy way to pump up the nutritional value of your green smoothie. You can also add in cauliflower, zucchini, and carrots to transform that tasty drink into a superfood. Steam up some cauliflower for this great recipe.
Berry Ginger Zing Smoothie
Blend the following:
- 1/2 cup frozen raspberries
- 1/2 cup strawberries
- 1/2 cup cauliflower (steamed for easier digestion)
- 1 1-inch cube of peeled ginger
- 1 cup of almond or other nut milk
Sweet, Yet Healthy, Indulgence
Hot, sticky summer evenings, when you’re determined to not turn on the oven and don’t have the desire to order carryout, are the perfect time to whip up a frosty, sweet dinner alternative. A smoothie drink or even a smoothie bowl is a great idea. Ripe summer melons are so refreshing this time of year, especially when blended with the zing of pineapple and whipped into a smoothie. Or, you could try this recipe for a smoothie bowl .
Berry Smoothie Bowl
Blend the following:
- 1/3 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
- 1/2 a banana
- 1/2 cup frozen blackberries
- 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 cup frozen raspberries
Pour the blended mixture into a bowl and garnish with toppings like granola, coconut, kiwi slices, and more bananas and berries, and drizzle with honey.
Go ahead and pull out your blender, grab some fruit and veggie ingredients, and celebrate Smoothie Day by serving up either a protein-packed smoothie, veggie-infused refresher, or even a sweet smoothie bowl. Have a delicious summer!
