SUMMER SMOOTHIE RECIPE
August 14, 2018
Pittsburgh Fitness Project
Nothing is more refreshing after a grueling workout than a fruit smoothie. One of my all-time favorite summer smoothie recipes is a super fresh peach banana smoothie. After a workout, however it is important to make sure you are supplying your body with adequate protein. Rather than just mixing protein powder in water I turn it into a smoothie which then fills me up for several hours afterwards. I like using a vanilla protein powder which is a pretty neutral flavor that’s great to add to a variety of smoothies. In my smoothie below, you may notice I added frozen riced cauliflower. It sounds a little strange, but I swear you don’t taste it at all and it adds another serving of vegetables to your diet. Below I’ve written out one of my go-to recipes.
BUT FIRST, WHY SMOOTHIES?
There are a number of reasons why you should consider adding healthy smoothies to your nutrition routine. For starters, I know that many of us (intentionally or unintentionally) skip breakfast. Instead of dealing with your grumbling tummy and potential hangry consequences, try a smoothie! A smoothie for breakfast that contains carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fat is a considered a meal replacement. This is a healthy and convenient way to start your day.
INCREASE YOUR FRUIT, VEGGIE, AND PROTEIN INTAKE
While the number of plant-based eaters is growing, not everyone is getting enough fruits and veggies throughout their day. And honestly, I bet you even some of those plant-based eaters don’t get enough either. Enter the wonderful smoothie. I find that smoothies are loved by even the pickiest eater. You can sneak a number of fruits and veggies into them. Giving you great flavor and the benefits of those nutrient dense foods without the “veggie greens” taste! We also need protein to help build and rebuild muscle tissue. Adequate protein is important for everyone, but especially anyone who is trying to lose weight and improve body composition. Recovery meals or snacks should contain both carbohydrates and protein. Smoothies made with protein supplements, soy, or dairy are a perfect choice.
REPLACE HIGH CALORIE MEALS FOR NUTRIENT DENSE ONES
A challenge many of us face is eating on the run. Fast food and restaurant meals may be convenient. However, many end up being a whopping 1,000 calories or more! Smoothies can help replace those high calorie meals and are just as convenient! Not to mention, smoothies made with fresh fruit and vegetables can aide in the nutrition areas you may be lacking. Depending on your ingredients, you can easily get enough fiber, vitamins and minerals. Smoothies are a great choice to help improve your intake of important nutrients!
SUMMER SMOOTHIE INGREDIENTS:
● 1 frozen peach
● 1 frozen banana
● ½ cup frozen riced cauliflower
● 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
● 1 cup of unsweetened vanilla almond milk
● ¼ cup of plain Greek yogurt
● Several ice cubes
● Spoonful of chia seeds
DIRECTIONS:
● Put all the ingredients in the blender.
● Blend until smooth and no remaining chunks
● Enjoy!