Groovy Smoothies

So you think you can cook? I dabble but where I really shine is in my smoothie skills. I am a ninja, always looking to mix up a fresh recipe to share. Smoothies have become a staple in my diet. So quick, easy and convenient for my busy schedule.

If one of these 3 recipes doesn't get on your radar, you must be off the map. These are so handy, nutritious and incredibly delicious. Okay, no more Dr. Suess. Let's get to blending!

1.) The fan favorite would have to be my "Nana Peanut-butta" Chocolate smoothie. When I say fan, I mean my 3 year old nana stealer, Liam. Luckily for him he loves peanut butter just as much as he loves his bananas. He would eat the entire bunch in a day if I let him. This prompted me to start freezing half the batch for smoothies.

I am grateful for his bananagans because I actually love the texture that frozen bananas bring to a smoothie. This one is nothing to laugh off with 41 grams of protein. It is an excellent source of potassium, Vitamin A and C.

INGREDIENTS:

Vegan Chocolate Protein 1 scoop

Whey Chocolate Protein 1 scoop

Collagen 1 scoop

1/2 frozen banana

1/2 cup unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk

1 tbsp Natural Peanut butter

Handful of ice

1/2 cup of water

(Do less water if you want it to be creamier or thicker!)

BLEND!

CALORIES 314

Protein 41 grams

Carbohydrates 26 grams

Fiber 5 grams

Sugar 11 grams

Fat 11 grams

2.) The "Oh so Merry, Berry" smoothie. This is hands down my favorite smoothie! It is so refreshing and tastes exactly like a strawberry milkshake but better. All without the stomach ache #winning! It is light in calories and packed with nutrients.

Who doesn't love that!? This one packs a punch with 31 grams of protein. It has an amazing 8 grams of fiber, and is high in calcium, potassium, Vitamin A and C. Tell me that is not something to smile about? I will wait..

INGREDIENTS:

Whey protein 2 scoops

Collagen 1 scoop

Chai seeds 1 tbsp

Spinach 2 cups

Mixed Berries (frozen) 1 1/2 cups

Handful of ice

Water 1 cup

BLEND!

CALORIES 294

Protein 31 grams

Carbs 22 grams

Fiber 8 grams

Sugar 15 grams

Fat 7 grams

3.) The "Caring Cake" is my second favorite smoothie indulgence. I named it the caring cake because it is self care in a glass. Oh, so good for your body and soul. Perhaps, my tastebuds have just gone delusional but I taste carrot cake. Yes, you read that right.. carrot CAKE! It is a decedent type of smoothie so reserve this one for a dessert occasion.

As if you need an occasion to eat cake? I think not!

You can carelessly eat this one guilt free though with the celebratory nutrients and energy it will bring you. Tend to your inner Birthday self and love every minute of it. Tag me in your birthday selfie if you decide to try it out.

INGREDIENTS:

Whey protein 2 scoops

Collagen 1 scoop

Almond Milk 1 1/2 cups

Baby Carrots (about 9)

Flax Seeds 1 tbsp

1/2 Handful ice

Cinnamon 2-5tsp

(Cinnafactor will depend on your level of obsession with cinnamon)

CALORIES 306

Protein 30 grams

CARBS 28 grams

Fiber 15 grams

Sugar 9 grams

Fat 10 grams

There is so many options for supplemental protein and collagen powders. I utilize collagen because it has been scientifically proven to boost muscle mass, strengthen bones and relieve joint pain. There are claims that it promotes weight loss, slows aging and improves the health of your hair, skin and nails. Whey protein is a no brainer for me because it is highly digestible. It helps me get enough protein in with my intensive training and busy schedule.

It all depends on your unique preferences and budget. I typically use Vega and Orgain for my vegan protein (hello, micronutrients!) Integrated Supplements and Quest are my go-to whey protein supplements. I really like the Tone it Up Collagen but any unflavored powder will work just the same! When I can swing it, I go for organic but that is not always available or affordable. It is about doing your best, and not about being perfect!

I hope you enjoy these simple smoothies. If you find they are not sweet enough for your taste buds, you can add Stevia, organic honey or real maple syrup. Be sure to shout me out or let me know if you try these smoothies! I would love to know if you enjoyed them.

Don't be afraid to get creative, make it your own and have fun! Happy Blending!