Thirsty Thursday: Fruit Smoothies Perfect for Spring

For many of us it is often hard to find the time to make time to make a nutritious breakfast in the morning. One great option is to whip up a quick, fruit packed smoothie. Smoothies are delicious, quick and provide a full serving of fruits (and vegetables, if you choose to include them) in one simple glass. All you really need is a blender and an assortment of fruit and you are in smoothie business!

Great tips for getting the most out of your smoothies

Keep an assortment of frozen fruit on hand in the freezer for smoothies. Frozen fruit is perfect for smoothies because it gives it a thicker texture, plus it is keeps for a long time and sometimes you just don’t always have fresh fruit on hand.

For added nutritional punch you can also add in flax or a gluten-free protein powder as well. Add in some carrots or even some spinach for some additional sweetness and added nutrients. This month we created several delicious fruit smoothies that will surely brighten your early spring mornings. This delicious drink also makes a great snack (my daughter often prepares them for herself after school).

Black & Blue Smoothies
(serves 2)
1/2 cup blackberries
1/2 cup blueberries
1/4 cup blueberry pomegranate juice
1/4 cup orange juice
1 Tablespoon honey
1-1/2 cups crushed ice

Place all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Note: you can also use frozen blueberries and blackberries in this recipe. If you choose frozen fruit cut the crushed ice down by 1/2 cup.

Orange, Pineapple & Coconut Smoothie
(serves 2)

1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup fresh pineapple
1/2 banana
1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 Tablespoons shredded coconut
1-1/2 cup crushed ice

Place all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Note: you can also use frozen fruit in this recipe. If you choose frozen fruit cut the crushed ice down by 1/2 cup.

Mixed Berry & Banana Smoothie
(serves 2)
1/2 cup raspberries
1/2 cup strawberries
1 banana
1/2 cup yogurt
1/2 cup milk
1 Tablespoon honey (or more to taste)
1/2 cup crushed ice

Place all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Note: you can also use frozen fruit in this recipe. If you choose frozen fruit cut the crushed ice down by 1/2 cup.

Photo by realSMILEY