Whether you’re running to work or looking to refuel after the gym, smoothies can be a healthy, grab-and-go option. Well-made smoothies are a delicious way to help get the fruits (and veggies!) you know you need, complete with an extra boost of vitamins and minerals to give you energy to conquer your day.
But it can be difficult to find the right flavor combination (and too easy to turn your smoothie into a high-calorie, high-sugar dessert). And even if you are the most tried and true fan of smoothies, you can find yourself a bit bored of the same old smoothie, with the same few fruits, day after day.
We’re here to help bust you of out blender boredom with unexpected ingredients like mint, ginger, cinnamon and more that add new, delicious, and healthy flavors to your smoothie list. Grab your blender and try these four Aramark chef-created smoothie recipes to make at home.
It’s Easy Going Green
This is sure to be your new go-to drink. In addition to the power-packed kale and spinach, it has almond milk, zingy ginger, and earthy and colorful turmeric, which is gaining popularity for its anti-inflammatory properties. Ground turmeric can be found in the spice aisle of most grocery stores.
Tropical Green Smoothie (One 12 oz. serving)
1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh, frozen, or canned in its own juice and drained)
1/2 cup ice cubes
1/4 cup chopped fresh kale leaves, washed and stems removed
1/8 cup fresh baby spinach leaves, washed
1/2 cup almond milk
1/2 tsp fresh gingerroot, peeled and grated
1/4 tsp ground turmeric
Instructions: Add all ingredients to a blender, cover and blend until smooth, 20-30 seconds.
Berries and Spice and Everything Nice
You don’t often see cranberries in smoothie recipes, but we think that’s about to change! Here, vitamin C- and fiber-packed cranberries get added to sweet strawberries and blended with ginger and cinnamon for a little spiciness.
Cranberry Ginger Smoothie (One 12 oz. serving)
1/2 cup sliced strawberries (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup frozen cranberries, thawed
3/4 cup ice cubes
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup simple syrup (Mix equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat and stir until sugar dissolves. Let cool.)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp fresh gingerroot, peeled and minced
Instructions: Add all ingredients to a blender, cover and blend until smooth, 20-30 seconds.
It’s Peanut Butter Berry Time
We took the classic combo of bananas and peanut butter to the next level. This smoothie has it all – fresh fruit, extra protein, and it’s dairy-free. The chia seeds add fiber and healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Nutty Banana Berry Smoothie (One 12 oz. serving)
1/2 cup fresh bananas, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup sliced strawberries (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup ice cubes
2 1/2 Tbsp smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup almond milk
1 tsp chia seeds
Instructions: Add all ingredients to a blender, cover and blend until smooth, 20-30 seconds.
Tropical Fruit Meets Cool Mint
This tangy smoothie is perfect for a hot day. The fresh mint adds a cooling taste, while the pineapple and apple sweeten it up. The vanilla yogurt adds creaminess.
Pineapple Mint Smoothie (One 12 oz. serving)
1/2 cup fresh banana, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup ice cubes
1/4 cup vanilla yogurt (lowfat or nonfat)
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp apple juice
1 tsp fresh mint leaves, washed and roughly chopped
Instructions: Add all ingredients to a blender, cover and blend until smooth, 20-30 seconds.
When it comes to smoothies, don’t be afraid to mix things up! Get creative and play around with different ingredients to find the perfect recipe that fits you. Thirsty for more? Check out our dessert-inspired breakfast smoothie recipes to break the morning monotony and start your day on a sweet note.
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.