Quick Meals = Smoothies!

18 Dec Quick Meals = Smoothies!

Now that you’re on board with paying special attention to your vegetable intake, let’s talk about one way to incorporate these nutritional gems into your diet during this busy holiday season.

Smoothies!

Smoothies are a fantastic and quick way to receive a boost of fruits, veggies, protein, healthy fats and more. Prepared wisely, these drinks can be very nutritious and wonderful options as a meal replacement or snack. Plus, there are so many recipes to try. 

Here are a few tips to keep in mind the next time you plan to sip on a nutritious smoothie.

1. Don’t forget the veggies. While fruit is probably the most popular ingredient in the majority of smoothie recipes, it’s important not to forget the addition of the ever so healthful vegetables of your choice. Your blood sugar and energy levels will thank you! Plus, the powerful taste of fruit will overpower the nose crinkle and not-so-great taste most people imagine that veggies have to offer in a drink. 
2. Add a protein. Protein helps with muscle tissue recovery (which you definitely need after your boot camp workouts) and feeling fuller longer. Options for protein include both animal and plant-based foods. Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, whey protein powder, nuts and nut butters, soy milk, and pea protein powder to name a few. Some recipes tally the grams of protein naturally provided by the fruits and vegetables in the smoothie and the amount is surprisingly awesome.
3. Healthy fats are optional, but great. Omega 3 sources, such as ground flax seed, chia seed, and hemp seed provide a healthy boost to your smoothie.
4. Keep frozen produce in your freezer, so you’re always ready to be a smoothie king or queen. When you have produce on the edge of expiring, freeze it, then use it for a smoothie instead of letting it go to waste.
5. Prep or blend your smoothie the night before, so you can grab and go in the morning.
6. Wash and rinse your blender right after you pour out the goodness for quick and easy clean up.

Check out the smoothie recipes included in this week’s list of recipes. 

by Victoria Emmitt RD