Smoothies

I could say that I drink smoothies just because they are healthy, but I’d be lying. I like them because they are thick and frothy. Because they don’t feel heavy in my stomach. And because they are quick to make when I wait too long to eat. I also like that they are healthy.

Healthy Smoothies

I  load my smoothies with protein and calcium. They’re a drinkable meal. I try to keep them interesting, but still healthy by adding flavor and reducing the sugar.

Yogurt Smoothies

The simplest way to keep the sugar low in a smoothie is by choosing a plain or low-sugar yogurt. I usually use siggi’s vanilla Icelandic yogurt because it is thick, low in sugar and high in protein. I sometimes double the vanilla and use plain Greek yogurt. It has no sugar and is also thick and high in protein. I prefer non-fat milk to nut milks, but almond milk is even lower in calories.

Frozen Fruit Smoothies

Rather than ice (which dilutes the flavor) I add frozen bananas to my smoothies. Frozen fruit creates the frothy milkshake-like texture.

Healthy Smoothie Ingredients

Another reason to add bananas to smoothies is their nutritional properties. They are filled with potassium, are high in fiber and low in sugar.  I always buy too many bananas. When they get mushy I take off the skin and freeze them in a freezer bag for future smoothies.  I fill my smoothies with protein. In addition to yogurt, I include a tablespoon of a nut butter. The extra protein helps keep me full throughout the morning. I also add a tablespoon of flavorless ground flax seeds for their fiber,  omega-3 fats and high nutrient content. Read this Healthline article to find out about more about the benefits of flax seeds.

Breakfast Smoothies

I like smoothies for breakfast because they are easy and quick to prepare. You can even take them with you in the car or on the train.

Smoothie Recipes

One of my favorite breakfasts is a Peanut Butter and Vanilla Smoothie. On days when I want to jump-start your metabolism or cool off, I make a Tropical Smoothie instead. It’s made with cashew butter, lime and a hint of cayenne pepper.

Other Breakfasts

If you are looking for some other breakfast ideas try my recipes for rice pudding, peanut butter oatmeal or a yogurt parfait.

A Chicago Life

Look for more of my posts about fun in Chicago and my upcoming blog name change to “A Chicago Life.”

Easy Smoothie Recipes

Peanut Butter and Vanilla Smoothie

1 – 16 oz. or 2 -8oz. Glasses

1 frozen banana

1 cup almond or nonfat milk

½ cup vanilla Icelandic yogurt

1 tablespoon vanilla

1 tablespoon peanut butter

1 teaspoon maple syrup

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.

 

Tropical Smoothie

1 – 16 oz. or 2 -8oz. Glasses

1 frozen banana

1 cup nonfat or almond milk

½ cup Icelandic plain yogurt

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1 tablespoon cashew butter

1 teaspoon maple syrup

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Garnish with a sprinkling of cayenne.