Smoothies are healthy beverages enjoyed by all sorts of people. You can make your smoothie any way you want. They can be healthy, sweet, or tart. This article lists the most common ingredients used in smoothies and some great recipes for you to try.
The concept of smoothies originated in Brazil and became a popular drink in the United States in the 1930s. A smoothie is a blended and chilled beverage that is made with a wide variety of fresh, tinned, or frozen fruits and sometimes with raw vegetables. Ingredients like yogurt and milk are used to give a thick consistency. Health conscious people can also use soy milk or whey protein in smoothies.
Most common ingredients
- Milk – You can use milk instead of water for a different flavor. Vanilla-flavored soy milk is a good choice for vegans.
- Juice – You can use apple juice or grape juice. If you want to make it sweeter, orange juice is a good option when you use yogurt or milk as a base. Using vegetable or tomato juice can make it more nutritious.
- Ice – Adding ice to the smoothie will give it a frothier texture.
- Salt and Sweetener – Adding a pinch of salt and sweetener can make the flavors more distinct.
- Yogurt – Yogurt makes a great base and gives a good consistency. You can try different flavors of yogurt like vanilla, strawberry, and lemon.
- Tofu – Tofu blends well in smoothies and is a great way to add protein to your diet.
- Honey – Honey is a natural sweetener that will add a great taste.
- You can also add muesli, oatmeal, wheat germ, and flax seeds to add an interesting texture.
Tofu Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 banana
- ½ cup silken tofu (diced)
- ¼ cup fruit yogurt
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1½ tablespoons soy milk
- ½ cup raspberries
Directions:
Blend all the ingredients until smooth. Pour into tall glasses and chill the beverage before serving.
Banana-Strawberry Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 3 bananas (sliced)
- 10 fresh strawberries
- 1 cup apple juice
- 8 oz. yogurt
Directions:
Blend all the ingredients together until you get a smooth, rich texture. Enjoy with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.
Classic Strawberry Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 10 fresh strawberries
- ¼ cup crushed ice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ cup yogurt
- 1½ cup milk
Directions:
Put the strawberries, ice, and yogurt in the blender and blend until the ingredients are mixed well. Add sugar and give it another spin. You can also use honey instead of sugar.
Fruit Yogurt Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized banana
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 medium-sized apple
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1½ cups plain yogurt
- 5-7 crushed almonds
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream
Directions:
Put all the ingredients in a blender and blend until creamy and smooth. Pour into tall glasses and top with whipped cream and almonds. Serve chilled.
Sweet Vegetable Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple (sliced)
- ½ cup carrots (peeled and sliced)
- ½ cup cucumber (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup apple juice
- ¼ cup applesauce
- 2 cups crushed ice
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon powder
Directions:
Blend all the ingredients together to get a smooth consistency. Pour into tall glasses, sprinkle the nutmeg or cinnamon powder, and garnish with a sprig of mint. Serve chilled.
