Healthy Happy Smoothies
It’s the New Year and I’m sure you all have made a resolution to be healthier and more aware of the food choices you might unconsciously make. A great way to boost your energy and get the nutritious benefits of fruits and vegetables is to get on the smoothie train. I absolutely love waking up and throwing a plethora of fresh ingredients into my Kenmore blender before my morning workout or even if I need a sweet tasting ‘dessert’ without all the sugar and calories. These are my top three smoothies that will power you through your day and keep your waistline in check. Happy New Year and here’s to a healthier you!!
Ingredients:
1 cup ice
¼ cup non-fat vanilla Greek yogurt
½ cup canned pineapple in juice, undrained (crushed, tidbits, chunks or rings)
2 Tbsp. Frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
2 Tbsp. agave
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Directions:
Place all ingredients into a blender and puree for 30 seconds or until well combined. Pour into a glass and serve with a pineapple wedge and mint.
Banana Almond Praline Crunch Smoothie
Ingredients:
2 bananas, peeled
1 Tbsp. grass-fed butter
½ tsp. cinnamon
1 Tbsp. chopped walnuts
1 cup almond milk
1 Tbsp. almond butter
1 Tbsp. vanilla whey protein powder
Directions:
Place one banana into a resealable bag and slice remaining banana into coins. Melt butter over medium heat and add banana coins. Cook until caramelized (about 2 minutes) and sprinkle in walnuts and cinnamon. Remove and cool then add to resealable bag with the other banana. Freeze overnight. Place all ingredients into blender and puree to make a delicious smoothie. Happy Eating!
Ingredients:
1 cup organic spinach
1 cup organic baby kale
1 banana
1 cup sliced organic apple
1 tsp. grated ginger
1 tsp. raw honey
1 tsp. chia seeds
1 cup coconut water
ice
Directions:
Place all ingredients into a Kenmore blender and puree till smooth. Serve immediately.
See it all in action:
Kari Karch
Kari Karch is a 19-year veteran of the culinary industry, creator of Kiss the Cook, and the head chef and spokesperson for the Kenmore brand. She has made many notable appearances on ABC Morning News, on WGN, on the Cooking Channel and as a judge for the World Food Championships.