Let’s face it, we don’t always have time to prepare gourmet breakfasts each and every morning. Sometimes, a quick fix needs to suffice to get us through until lunchtime, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. When I’m in a hurry or not feeling up to a particularly large breakfast, I find that a smoothie is the perfect way to get a boost of nutrients quickly and simply. I have a couple of go-to options that I’d like to share with you today and you may appreciate them even more if you are trying to detox, post the indulgent festive season. Please try them out and let me know your thoughts!

Mango, Blueberry, Banana & Spinach

For ease of use and for cost purposes, most of the fruit I use in my smoothies is already frozen. This way, I don’t have to worry about fresh berries going off as soon as I put them in the fridge! If I had to choose my favourite smoothie, it would be this one.

Image via Foodandwine.com

• Frozen blueberries
• 1 Frozen banana
• 2 or 3 ‘pieces’ of frozen spinach
• Frozen mango
• Almond milk (no added sugar) until container is full to the maximum level

Optional extras: Protein powder (I like NuZest), Oats, cashew nut butter, spirulina powder.

Simply pop everything together, blend and enjoy! As most of the ingredients are frozen, you’ll need a strong blender. I also don’t particularly ‘measure’ my ingredients, as I prefer to adjust according to taste and consistency on a daily basis. It goes without saying that if you want a thicker smoothie, add more fruit and veg and use less milk. Do the opposite if you want a thinner consistency.

‘Green Juice’ With Avocado Smoothie

This smoothie is packed with goodness and is great for hydration, but it takes a little more time to prepare as there are two parts to making it. If you’re short on time, forgo the avocado and enjoy it as a green juice instead, rather than a thick smoothie.

• Kale
• Green apple
• Celery
• Parsley
• Twist of lime
• Half an avocado
• Coconut water to adjust liquidity
  Thumb sized piece of peeled ginger (optional)

Simply wash the kale and rip the leaves into chunks, then put it through a juicer with the apples, celery, ginger and parsley. Using a blender, blend the avocado along with the juiced ingredients, lime juice and coconut water. Add some ice cubes if you need extra refreshment!

Mango And Cashew Smoothie

This is a delightfully creamy, decadent smoothie that you will certainly enjoy, providing you don’t have a cashew allergy. I first found this recipe on the Deliciously Ella site four years ago, I but have adapted it a little to save time. You’ll also need a strong blender if you don’t soak the cashews overnight.

Image via https://www.mehadrin.nl/

• Frozen mango
• Frozen spinach
• Ripe banana
• Handful of cashew nuts
• Almond milk or coconut water

Simply add everything to your blender and blend it until it’s smooth and creamy. This smoothie can be very thick, so you may want to experiment with the amount of ingredients until you reach your desired consistency.

I really hope you enjoy these smoothie options; please do let me know your thoughts! As always, I am available for free one on one consultations should you wish to discuss your health and wellness needs further. To learn more, visit Chasing Zest or email me at rachael@chasingzest.com. See you next month!