The Grass is Always Greener Smoothie

When most people think of an appetizing smoothie, the color green doesn't come to mind. In fact, if it does come to mind people are usually imagining adjectives that stray very far from the meaning of the word appetizing.

I'm hoping that this smoothie will change those people's minds. Don't be scared by the multiple leafy-green ingredients; this smoothie is light, smooth, and has a naturally sweet taste. Not to mention that it's full of nutrients and natural protein. Give it a try and let me know if it changes your view on green drinks!

FYI: I use all organic ingredients to help prevent the ingestion of nasty chemicals and GMOs. This isn't necessary, but it is suggested.


Ingredients
3 full leaves chard (or 2 leaves kale), including stem
¾ cup spinach
¼ avocado
2’’ slice of cucumber
½’’ slice lemon, rind cut off
1’’ fresh ginger root
½ gala apple (or other sweet variety)
1 banana
¼ cup almond milk
1½ - 2  cups water (use enough for desired consistency)
4-6 ice cubes

Directions
1. Combine ingredients in blender
2. Blend
3. Enjoy!

Protein Smoothie

As I sat down to enjoy my post-run protein smoothie today, I remembered that my brother has been imploring me to post recipes for this very same shake. So Bryce, here you go!

For those of you in search of a more tradition fruit smoothie, simply cut out the beans, powders, and oatmeal, and you have a delicious fresh fruit shake. 

Ingredients
1 banana
1 handful of strawberries
1 mango, sliced
1/2 cup white beans (great northern or cannellini)
1 1/2 cup almond milk
1/2 cup water (depending on desired consistency)
1/2 cup old fashioned oatmeal
2 tbsp flaxseed meal
1 scoop pea protein (I use Olympian Labs)
3 tbsp hemp protein
1 tsp glutamine powder
3-5 ice cubes

Directions
1. Blend fruits and milk in blender
2. Slowly add remaining ingredients
3. If consistency becomes too thick, slowly add more water

Note the color: I didn't use hemp protein, so it's much lighter than normal.

This is a great recovery shake after any hard workout or long run. It's packed with calories, protein, and nutrients. It's basically a meal replacer, so I will have one of these after the gym around 730 or 8pm and that will be my dinner.

Approximate Nutritional Facts
Calories: 780
Total Fat: 16g
Protein: 61.5g
Dietary Fiber: 23.5g