Two Smoothies & A Juice

Hello friends!

I am a huge fan of both juices and smoothies. They are an easy way to pack in a lot of nutrients quickly — plus they are delicious and refreshing especially in the summer. I start every morning with a green juice and have been enjoying a smoothie on many hot summer afternoons. I wanted to share my favorite recipes with you so you can enjoy them too!

Before we dive in, please note, there is lots of discussion regarding juices vs. smoothies. Some argue that juicing extracts all the valuable fiber and a juice can be overly sweet with too much fruit. Some say smoothies can be dense, calorie packed drinks. Like with all food — you have to do what is best for you, I am a big believer in bio-individuality.

I find juices a nourishing way to start the day. I typically have a green juice on an empty stomach 20 minutes before eating breakfast, and I try to incorporate mostly greens and one sweet fruit. Smoothies have been a life-saver this summer. My whole family likes them and they are a fantastic way to squeeze in a few extra greens into the day. Experiment regarding what feels best for you and your family, you can use these recipes as your canvas and explore from there!

A note about equipment and ingredients. An entire blog post or book could (and has!) been written about what equipment and ingredients to use. To keep it simple, I’ll just share what I use and love. I have had this Omega juicer for years and absolutely love it. It is easy to use and clean and very durable (eight years running!). I use the Nutribullet classic for my smoothies. Yes, there are many fancier and larger blenders with more bells and whistles, but I have found this one perfect for my use – it has lasted a year plus and it fits on my NYC counter top which is a win in my book! Regarding ingredients, I chose organic produce, powders and products (like spirulina, maca, nut butters & milk etc.) whenever possible.

Happy and healthy sipping! I’d love to work with you personally to create more recipes to match your taste and lifestyle. Click here to book a free, 50-minute session to start on journey to wellness.

All my best,

Mandy

Daily Green Juice: serves 2

4 large leaves kale, stem included

1 large sprig of mint

1 handful parsley

1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced into spears

3 spears of fresh pineapple

3 stalks celery

1, 2-inch piece of ginger (you can use more or less to taste, I LOVE ginger!)

Add all ingredients to the juicer, strain after juicing and serve immediately!

Tropical Green Smoothie: Serves 2

1 banana (frozen if you want an extra cold smoothie!)

3/4 cup fresh pineapple chunks

1 cup firmly packed kale (stems removed)

1/2 cup cucumbers, peeled and sliced into chunks

1 1/2 teaspoons maca power (if desired, I find it adds a delicious malty flavor)

1 tablespoon hemp seeds (or nut butter if preferred)

1/2 teaspoon spirulina powder

1 cup nut milk of choice

1 inch piece of fresh ginger peeled and sliced, to taste

2 – 3 ice cubes

Put all ingredients in high speed blender and blend on high until smooth, adding more liquid or ice as needed. Enjoy immediately in a frosty glass!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup: Serves 2

This is my son’s absolute favorite and is particularly refreshing on a hot summer day!

1 1/2 cups nut milk of choice

1 banana (frozen if you want an extra cold smoothie)

1 tablespoon raw cacao powder or nibs

1 1/2 teaspoons maca powder

2 tablespoon peanut butter (or almond butter if preferred. Try and select natural nut butters with no added sugar)

1 tablespoon coconut flakes

Pinch of cinnamon

2 dates

Pinch of sea saltt

2-3 ice cubes

Place all ingredients in a high speed blender and blend on high until smooth, adding more ice or liquid as needed. Enjoy immediately in a tall frosty glass!