A smoothie is one of the most versatile drinks you can make: any recipe can be easily adjusted to your tastes, any kind of consistency and flavor can be achieved, and there’s always options for everyone regardless of dietary needs. They’re an adaptable and delicious way to get your fruits (and veggies), sure, but they also don’t have to be terribly intensive to make. Below are five easy recipes to jumpstart your morning (or any time of day, for that matter.)
Note: Yogurt isn’t necessary for the majority of smoothies, although it can provide a smoother, thicker consistency and add nutrients. You can also use protein powder, coconut cream, fruit juices, or even creamers for added flavors and textures. Using pre-frozen fruit can also eliminate the need for ice, should you prefer less water in your smoothies.
Blueberry & Peanut Butter Protein
2 tbsp peanut butter or nut butter of choice
2 cups blueberries
1 cup ice
1 cup milk or soy milk
⅓ cup greek or coconut yogurt
½ cup banana, sliced
Optional: ½ cup chia seeds
Pina Colada
1 cup pineapple, chopped
1 cup coconut chunks (alternative: 2 cups pineapple with coconut milk)
½ cup vanilla low-fat frozen yogurt or coconut yogurt
1 cup milk or coconut milk
1 cup ice
Strawberry-Banana Oat
½ cup oats (rolled oats for the best texture)
1 cup strawberries, hulled
1 cup banana, sliced
½ vanilla plain yogurt or oat yogurt
1 cup milk or oat milk
1 cup ice
¼ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp brown sugar
Green Thumb
½ cup kale, chopped
⅔ cup spinach, chopped
½ cup banana, sliced
½ cup blueberries
½ cup greek yogurt or soy yogurt
1 cup milk or soy milk
1 cup ice
Optional: ½ cup medjool dates or ⅓ cup nutritional yeast
Fruit Punch
⅓ cup raspberries
⅓ cup strawberries, hulled
⅓ cup banana, chopped
⅓ cup pineapple, chopped
⅓ cup mango, sliced
Dash of lemon juice
1 cup ice
¼ cup coconut water
1 cup milk or coconut milk
Optional: ⅓ cup dragonfruit