Smoothies
A refreshing and versatile smoothie perfect for hot days or quick snacks, blending fresh or canned fruit with ice and optional sweeteners for a cool treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put 2 cups of fruit (e.g., strawberries) in a blender.
- Puree the fruit by blending until smooth.
- Add 2 to 3 cups of ice cubes to the blender.
- Blend until the mixture is slushy.
- Add sugar to taste and blend again.
- Pour the smoothie into a tall glass.
- Feel free to be creative with different fruits like peaches, pineapple, watermelon, or applesauce.
- Optionally, add a little vanilla ice cream with applesauce for extra creaminess.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker smoothie, use frozen fruit instead of fresh. If you're out of ice, frozen yogurt or additional fruit works well. A splash of juice can enhance flavor without adding too much sugar. Experiment with different fruits like peaches or pineapple for unique blends. For added nutrition, consider adding spinach or protein powder. If you're looking for a sweeter option, try incorporating some of Kendra's Fruit Salad for a refreshing twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your smoothies in tall glasses, garnished with fruit slices or a sprig of mint for a vibrant presentation. They pair wonderfully with a light breakfast like toast or yogurt, or as a refreshing afternoon snack. For a decadent treat, consider topping your smoothie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Smoothies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container. If the smoothie separates, simply give it a good shake or stir before drinking. Avoid freezing as this can alter the texture. If you have leftovers, consider blending in some ice before serving again for a refreshing slushy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoothies contains roughly 255 calories, with 2g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen fruit is a great option and can give your smoothie a thicker, creamier texture. Just keep in mind that you may need less ice if using frozen fruit, as it will already chill the mixture.
What can I add to make my smoothie healthier?
You can add greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients without altering the taste much. Additionally, incorporating seeds like chia or flaxseed, or protein powder can boost the nutritional value of your smoothie.
How do I make my smoothie less sweet?
If your smoothie is too sweet, add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to balance the flavors. You can also increase the amount of ice or add unsweetened yogurt to tone down the sweetness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).