Here’s the first recipe I promised those who got to sample some of this super-refreshing, clean-burning and cleansing smoothie last Friday, in Boulder and/or Lafayette. One taster informed me, with a smile and twinkle in their eyes, that they would rather have their greens in a salad… So, be forewarned: This is not your regular old smoothie-chain-style sugar-rush type drink. This is sustenance in a jar, and it happens to be mouthwatering, cooling and refreshing.
Ingredients (serves 4):
1/2 pineapple, in chunks
1 ripe banana (overly ripe is fine; when your ‘nanas turn brown, peel and freeze them for future smoothie use)
1/2 cucumber, ends removed (they can get bitter)
2 avocados (ripe)
1/2 can coconut milk
Juice of 1 lime (add a little bit of zest, too, if you have an organic lime)
1 inch of a fresh ginger root, peeled
2 heaping scoops of your favorite, clean protein powder (NOT soy-based or flavored)
Put all this goodness in your blender, and crank it. Follow manufacturer’s instructions, and add some water as needed. If you are not using a powerful blender such as a Vitamix or BlendTec, remove the pineapple core. If you are lucky enough to work with a beast of a blender, leave it in: it contains most of the bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties.
This smoothie contains ample vitamin C, from the pineapple and the citrus. You will also get some healthy fats for sustained energy, a great mix of electrolytes and alkalizing minerals, and the anti-inflammatory, muscle-pain-reducing and stomach-soothing properties of the ginger.
Add even more nourishment by topping this creme with superfoods like hemp nuts, chia seeds, fresh berries, bee pollen, raw cacao nibs, a sprinkle of spirulina powder, or any variety of nuts and seeds that you have in your cupboard.
Don’t forget to EAT your smoothie-bowl SLOWLY and mindfully, and chew the seeds, berries and creamy goodness well, for optimal nutrient absorption.
If you have leftovers, you can freeze some of your smoothie in an ice cube tray and add the cubes to future smoothies. Or, you can purchase BPA-free popsicle molds for relatively cheap and create your own healthy, invigorating treats.
And remember: This recipe is only a starting place for your creativity. Find the freshest possible ingredients at your local farmers market or store (seasonal often-times means more nutrient-dense), and get creative!