It’s the start of a New Year, almost a week after we’ve gorged ourselves on roast dinners, cheeseboards, mountains of chocolate, and – for many of us – too many glasses of Prosecco. It’s likely you’ve dusted off that Nutribullet or smoothie maker that’s been in the back of the cupboard since last January, and you’re wondering what exactly should you put in it? Well, this describes me perfectly at least!
One of my resolutions this year is to get healthy, there’s not enough fruit in my diet and a great way to get my 5 a day is by drinking more smoothies! My favourites are tropical fruit smoothies which include mango and pineapple, but really you can put absolutely anything in your blender to make a delicious smoothie for any time of day.
To get the most out of your smoothie, at its base should be dark leafy greens like spinach or kale, just a couple of handfuls because of their nutritional benefits, they’re packed full of vitamins to keep you healthy! Then add your favourite fruits, some milk, milk alternative, fruit juice or water, and if you want a protein boost add a supplement powder, flaxseed or chia seed – blend it all together and you’re good to go!
Since all blenders are different, and so are all tastes, it’s no good me telling you exactly how many of which fruits to add, the best way to find out the best smoothie for you is to experiment with amounts and take these recipes as a guide.
Detox
After binging on so much delicious yet bad food over the Christmas period our bodies are in need of serious help to detox, so including foods rich in antioxidants will make a great smoothie to help you feel refreshed and ready to take on 2016.
Frozen diced pineapple
Fresh baby spinach
Frozen diced banana
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
1tbsp chia seeds
Juice from half a lime
A splash of water or juice
Immune Boost
The cold and flu season is at its peak, our immune systems are typically a little sluggish if we haven’t been eating the right foods lately, so give yours a boost with this nutrient-rich fruit smoothie.
Fresh spinach or kale
Half a can of pineapple chunks with juice
1 Orange, peeled
1 Kiwi, peeled
2 tbsp ground flaxseed
Plain greek yoghurt
Frozen mixed berries
A splash of water
Treat Yourself
Chocolate doesn’t always have to be unhealthy, and you need to remember to have a treat every now and then or you’ll end up binging on all the wrong foods all over again! Try this chocolate and peanut butter smoothie to curb those cravings.
Overripe banana, frozen and sliced
Almond milk
Ice
Creamy peanut butter
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
Half a tsp vanilla extract
Let us know if you try any of these recipes, what do you think? What’s your favourite smoothie?