Homemade smoothies are a great way to stretch your dollar because for less than a buck, you can have one as a whole meal. Experts say it's healthy, filling and inexpensive.
On a hot afternoon, smoothie shops have a steady stream of fans. At Smoothie King off South Shepherd, the menu is packed with healthy options. Organic raw food expert Kristina Carrillo-Bucaram says smoothies are one of the best ways to replace a meal.
She said, "Not only will this jam pack your day with vitamins and minerals, but also think about it will feel like you are eating a lot but will be fewer calories."
Smoothies are healthy, refreshing and taste good. But if you go to a smoothie spot, expect to pay about $5 for a 16-ounce drink. Instead we are going to show you how to do it yourself.
Kristina teaches classes on how to make a perfect smoothie. Her favorite is a green smoothie. She says it's a great way to eat your veggies. For this recipe, you need three ingredients -- pineapple, mango and kale.
"I know a lot of people are scared of kale," she said. "Most people are scared of this but it's one of the most nutritious greens, one of the most nutritious on the planet."
Kristina advices to just use the leaves for a smoothie, otherwise it could be a bit bitter. Now place the fruit on the bottom, then add kale and blend. Total cost per serving $1.50.
Over at the Island Grill and Juice Bar in Memorial, the pros here use only organic, all natural ingredients in their smoothies. Maria Haddad is a master smoothie maker. She says when you make smoothies, always use frozen fruit.
"We peel our own bananas, we slice them up and throw them in the freezer. The same with fresh strawberries, pineapples," she said.
Using frozen fruit in your smoothie keeps the consistency smooth without adding ice. For her recipe, Maria uses apple juice, bananas and strawberries. Total price per serving is just $1.
If you choose to make a smoothie as a meal replacement, add a serving of protein. You can find a protein supplement at your area vitamin shop.
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Recipes:
Banana Celery Smoothie
Directions:
Add the bananas to your blender first because they are soft and will blend easily then your celery.
Green Smoothie
Directions:
Add your fruit first then the kale and blend.
Lemon-Ginger Blast
Directions:
You can mix up as many or few greens as you want in any amount. Add ginger in the middle and lemons last.