Spinach Strawberry Booster Smoothie

When you need a quick boost, this simple and delicious smoothie is sure to hit the spot. An easy on-the-go breakfast or post-workout treat, this healthful beverage is packed with antioxidants for recovery and protein for satiety and energy. Smoothies with greens in them don’t have to taste gritty; instead be sure to flavor your greens appropriately with the essence of vanilla and fruit. Balancing a smoothie with protein is key but there are options other than protein powder to do the trick. Whole food sources such as yogurt offers protein while choosing a plain variety of either dairy or non-dairy yogurt cuts down on sugar to help balance carbohydrate intake. This recipe relies on the natural sweetness of berries and banana as slower burning carbohydrate. Rice, almond and coconut yogurts are lower in protein while dairy and soy varieties will be higher.

SERVES 2

Ingredients
2 cups raw baby spinach
1 ½ cups unsweetened almond, soy or dairy milk
½ small frozen banana
1 cup frozen strawberries
6 ounces plain yogurt (dairy or non-dairy variety)
½ tsp. pure vanilla extract

Procedure

Combine all ingredients in a large blender and puree until smooth. Add more liquid if needed for consistency.

FoodTrients
Anthocyanin antioxidants
Calcium
Fiber
Folate
Manganese
Probiotics
Vitamin C
Vitamin K