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August 16.2015
3 Minutes Read

[RECIPE] Smoothie Matters – How to Get Started


Smoothie Matters How to Get Started

If you’ve not yet tried making smoothies to help you lose weight, (or any other reason – such as speeding up recovery after exercise and workouts), you may well wonder where to start.

So I’m preparing a couple of articles to give you a fast-start – set you off in the right direction without have to read & research too much.

Here’s the first of these – covering the basics.

  • what ingredients to buy

  • the question of natural sweeteners

  • the key tool – which blender to use

Check out the article below and let me know what you think.

It’s really pretty straight forward, according to Chantelle Zakariasen of RootandSprouts.com ...

  • All you need to get started is a blender and some key ingredients.

  • Get into the habit of stocking up lots of leafy greens, apples, fresh or frozen berries, and whatever additions you want in your smoothie.


Smoothie Buying Guide

Try and stick to organic fruits and vegetables. The extra cost is worth their added benefit. Studies have shown organic food is more nutritious than non organic.

Tip: Look for deals at your local farmers market. Buy fruits and vegetables in bulk when they are in season. Then freeze the excess so you can have local organic strawberries all through the winter!

Tip: With greens (like kale) – puree the leaves with some water then freeze in ice cube trays. Transfer to a plastic bag for storage.

Tip: Have one drawer in your fridge dedicated for use as your juicing drawer. Keep all smoothie ingredients in that drawer. This will save you time and make preparation easier each morning.


Natural Sweeteners

For those of us with more of a sweet tooth there are natural sweeteners that you can add. Stevia is the best as it tastes sweet but contains relatively no calories.

Also, consider raw honey if you are pretty active, in good health and around your target weight.

But maybe a better suggestion is to use the natural sweetness of bananas as in the healthy Mocha Banana Smoothie recipe coming up at the end of this post.


Blender Buying Guide

Ideally you’ll want to go with a high powered blender, these really get the job done well and last a long time.

If your budget is limited, opt for a lower cost version with similar features. You’ll have lots of choice.

But consider this – high powered blenders (like the vitamix or blendtec blow) are much more versatile. You can do much more with these than just make smoothies.

As Chantelle Zakariasen comments ...

Anything from nut and seed butters, hummus, soup, baby food, sauces, dressings, spreads,nut milk, grinding your own flours from whole grains, coffee, and more.

My high powered blender is definitely the most utilized tool in my kitchen, and typically they last for 10+ years.

 

Best High Powered Blenders

  • Vitamix 5200

  • BlendTec

  • Omega Commercial Blender

Best Low Budget Blenders

  • Ninja Professional NJ600

  • Oster Beehive Ostercizer

  • Cuisinart Smart Power Premier


Recipe: Mocha Banana Smoothie

Ingredients (2 medium servings)

Mocha Banana Smoothie

1/2 cup cold black Coffee
1/2 cup fat-free Milk (I use lactose free)
1 frozen Banana, sliced
1 heaping Tablespoon unsweetened Coconut Flakes
1 Tablespoon ground Flaxseed
1/2 Tablespoons unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1/4 teaspoon local Honey (optional)
1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
2 handfuls of Ice

Recipe: Talya Tate Boerner

Article Source:  Chantelle Zakariasen (Update: website no longer available.)

Photos DrinkMeHealthy.com

If you enjoyed this post, thanks for spreading the love – Like it and Share it with your friends.


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08.05.2025

Pesto Exposed: Health Benefits That Will Surprise You

Update Exploring the Nutritional Benefits of Pesto Pesto is often seen as just a flavorful addition to pasta or sandwiches, but its ingredients reveal a range of health benefits worth discussing. It's packed with nutrient-dense foods that can support a healthy lifestyle. When we dive into what's inside this vibrant green sauce, we find a balance of healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins. The Power of Fresh Basil Starting with the foundation of pesto, fresh basil is more than just a flavor enhancer. This aromatic herb is rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which help combat inflammation. Nutritionists emphasize the importance of incorporating such herbs into our diets, as they contribute significantly to our daily intake of essential nutrients without the calories. Nuts: The Creamy Heart-Healthy Component The traditional nut used in pesto is the pine nut, known for its creamy texture and delicious flavor. However, walnuts and almonds are excellent alternatives that offer similar nutritional profiles, including healthy omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium. These nutrients are particularly beneficial for heart health and may support cognitive function. Choosing Quality Olive Oil Matters Extra virgin olive oil is another star ingredient in pesto, delivering healthy monounsaturated fats that are anti-inflammatory. Choosing high-quality olive oil can elevate the flavor of pesto while providing health benefits. It’s worth investing in a good bottle, especially considering the range of polyphenols that contribute to overall well-being. The Bright Touch of Lemon Juice Lemon juice is not just a simple flavor booster; it has significant health benefits too. Rich in vitamin C, lemon juice helps support the immune system and enhances gut health. Its polyphenols have anti-aging properties, making it a great addition to any diet. Additionally, the acid in lemon juice helps preserve the bright green color of basil in pesto. The Role of Cheese in Pesto Parmesan cheese often makes its way into pesto recipes, providing a salty flavor and extra creaminess. Cheese is recognized for its health benefits, including calcium and protein, contributing to bone health. The amount of cheese can be adjusted based on dietary preferences, and plant-based cheeses are becoming popular for those seeking alternative options. Reinventing Pesto: Creative Uses Pesto isn't limited to pasta; its versatility allows for creative culinary explorations. You can spread it on sandwiches, use it as a marinade for chicken, or even mix it into your favorite smoothies for an added health boost. There are endless possibilities when you allow your kitchen creativity to shine. Practical Tips for Making Pesto at Home Making pesto at home is simple and rewarding. By blending fresh ingredients, you can customize flavors to match your taste. Start with your choice of nuts and herbs, add olive oil, lemon juice, and cheese, and use a food processor for a smooth consistency. This freshness not only enhances the nutritional value but also creates a rich, robust flavor profile. Final Thoughts on Pesto's Health Benefits So, is pesto healthy? The answer is a resounding yes! When made with quality ingredients, pesto is a nutrient-dense sauce that can be part of a balanced diet. It's perfect for busy individuals seeking quick, nutritious meal options. Explore pesto's versatility and incorporate it into various dishes to enjoy its many health benefits. As you savor your next bowl of pesto, remember the myriad of health advantages it can bring!

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Discover the Joy of Summer with S'Mores Icebox Cake Recipe

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Discover How Smoothies Are My Secret Weapon Against Cravings!

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