Fresh & Fast: Did Somebody Say Smoothie?

When I want to start my day off on the right foot with a super healthy breakfast, I choose a smoothie.

- CAROL CORLEY

My freezer is full of blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, peaches, and even bananas without the skin. That way, whatever my taste cries out for at the moment, there is something to satisfy it. Many people add vegetables such as spinach and beets, nuts, seeds, or cocoa powder. Others add peanut butter or almond butter.

If the smoothie is too thick, you can adjust it with milk. If it is too thin because you have too much fresh fruit and not enough frozen, you can add ice cubes. Personally, I find the taste watery with ice cubes, so I like most of my fruit to be frozen.

Smoothies are an easy way to increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables, which may reduce inflammation and improve your digestion. They contain fiber, and the yogurt helps supply a healthy gut bacteria community. People with underlying health conditions, of course, need to consult a physician before making a big change.

So, what could be easier? A powerful blender, a couple of handfuls of frozen or fresh fruit, and optional extras. For me, that includes whey protein, uncooked oatmeal, Greek yogurt, pure vanilla flavoring, sometimes turmeric (you don’t even notice it’s in there).

The secret to a good smoothie is to use the freshest ingredients possible (fresh before freezing) and a high-quality blender. Also, you may need to pour in a little liquid with the first ingredients, to keep the blades moving smoothly. Ice always goes in last, and the smoothie really tastes better if you don’t need it.