Thursday, November 14, 2013

The Case of the Green Drinks

Inspired by a med-school friend of mine, I've been getting in on the green-smoothie trend and actually really enjoying it. The first one I made was not very good, I admit. But after a few different rounds, adjusting the ingredients to my likings and acquiring my taste buds I've found what works for me and am loving the idea of getting in so many servings of fruits and vegetables before the day's even half over!
The Green Drink
Consistent Ingredients
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1/2 to 1 cup baby kale
  • 1/4 to 1/2 medium sized cucumber, pealed and cubed
  • 1 to 2 T ground chia seeds
  • 1 medium size apple, cubed
  • ~1/2 cup water, to desired consistency
Variable Ingredients
  • 1 medium sized banana, sliced
  • 1 medium sized pear, cubed
  • 1 cup frozen or fresh berries
  • 1 cup pineapple, cubed
  • Other dark greens like chard, etc
  • Fresh ginger, parsley or cilantro to taste


The best thing about these smoothies is the variability of what to include based on the seasonal fruits. When I first started making these, summer berries were just at their end so my first few had strawberries/blueberries galore. Now that it's fall and the pears are heavenly, they've been making an appearance almost every day. 

My only suggestion is to blend the water and "greens" alone in the blender until really smooth. My first attempt ended up being chunky due to the fact that I just threw it all together at once. After the greens are blended feel free to add in anything and everything that you enjoy. The flavor combinations are endless. I typically make mine the night before, store it in an empty jar and place it in the fridge over night. This makes it super cold for when I enjoy it for breakfast but using frozen fruit or even ice cubes instead of water will have the same effect if you make one to drink right away. 

I also guarantee that if you have a silly vegetarian pup like I do that this will consistently be the scene when you turn around from chopping fruits and veggies on the counter. Sometimes I indulge him with his own mini-smoothie in his belly with bites of my produce. 
These drinks might appear gross (as I've had J and classmates comment that they look like pesto, algae and pond water) but I assure you that they are quite delicious. Plus, they're packed full of nutrients and help you right along your way to the recommended 4 1/2 cups of fruits and veggies each day!

Have you every tried green smoothies? 
What's your secret ingredient if you have?

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Thankful v4

Lately I've been thankful....
 [+] for these two goof-balls who fill my evenings with smiles, tug-of-wars and kisses.

[+] for home cooked meals that I don't have to make
[+] for a fabulous group of girls who fill up my friend-tank on a daily basis & make this journey more bearable. 

[+] for actually enjoying every single topic I'm learning about in school for once. 
[+] for the opportunity to learn, despite the stress, lack of sleep and funny lab smells.

[+] for new fall colored nail polish and my Sunday afternoon ritual of using it.
[+] for fleece-lined leggings when getting dressed is too much work and it's cold outside. 

 [+] for my mom and how amazing it is to have her less than 5 miles away after so many miles before.
[+] for the first signs of festivities and my upcoming favorite holiday.

[+] for sore muscles after finally getting back into the gym this month. 
[+] for over 300+ days of married life and a quickly approaching anniversary. 

What are you thankful for lately?

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