Smoothies are probably one of the best treats that are fast and relatively easy to make.

Most of the ingredients are already in your kitchen.  I like making these or inventing new combinations with my fruit and veggies as to not waste anything by throwing it out because we forgot to eat it before it started to rot.  My general rule for flavor is two sweets (two fruits) to one salt (one vegetable) and/or one base (yogurt, milk, soy milk, coconut milk – whatever you prefer).  I generally don’t like to add ice because I feel it waters down the flavors.  I prefer to use frozen items instead.  Sometimes you can get more items for your money buying frozen over fresh.  They will last a lot longer too.  This is especially good if you are an avid smoothie drinker.  If you are using fresh ingredients you may have to add ice to help it liquefy smoother.

Some of my favorite mixtures are:

Berry Mixes:  Pick your favorite berry, mine is strawberry, and throw in a bit of either orange juice, lemon juice, or lime juice mixed with plain Greek yogurt.  This works too if you mix a few berries together.  The juices can be increased or decreased to your liking.  This smoothie mixture also tastes great with a dash of whipped cream.

Tropical Mixes:  This would be your mangoes, pineapples, avocado, kiwi, guava, et cetera.  You can mix and match these to create your very own island drink.  If you want to add a cream to this, I would suggest coconut milk to thicken it.  Other milks work too but coconut milk gives it a more island flavor.  Add it slowly so it whips up well with the fruit mixture.  If you don’t want to add the coconut milk, you can add sparkling water to the finished product for a more fizzy drink.  It’s so so delicious!

Veggie Mixes:  This is tricky to make taste good.  I love vegetables but I don’t really love them liquefied.  If you are looking to try some, start with one veggie as the base, add one carrot and one apple (any apple, just not a granny smith).  They will help balance the flavors out and increase the taste.

Add Ons:  I think the most popular thing to add now is peanut butter for some or seeds for others.  If peanut butter isn’t your thing there is always almond butter.  Always add these slowly because their taste can be overpowering.

This is a great alternative for dessert, or an occasional meal replacement.  I know some live on a liquid diet these days through various powders and such, but I advise you to stay healthy and consult your doctor if you are unsure that road is right for you.  Moderation is key and a smoothie is a great way to get in your daily dose of fruits and vegetables – it’s also a great way to get your kids excited about eating healthy.  If you create the right blend they will never know they are drinking vegetables and will learn to enjoy its flavor versus forcing them to eat them at the dinner table (this also works for adults).

What will you mix up today?