Easy Smoothie Recipes for the Busy Mama
Let’s be honest…did you read that title, roll your eyes, and say to yourself “smoothies are not a real meal”. Totally get these thoughts but….
A smoothie can be so much more than just blended fruit and finding the perfect mix can be a bonafide hero for many of us busy mamas. Get a complete meal, in one cup, under 5 minutes, and actually taste good? Yep…this totally can be done.
The google is FULL of options for finding an easy, healthy smoothie recipe option! Check out a few of my favorites that not only taste good but leave the belly feeling full.
Finding an easy smoothie recipes is an easy task through the use of Google. These smoothies can include protein powder, fruit, thickener, and a liquid of your choice. Check out these next few recipes made by a mom for moms.
easy smoothie recipes
3 Steps to Make the Perfect Easy Smoothie
The top three ingredients that are seen in a smoothie include:
Fruit
Thickener
Liquid
Let’s dive down into those three categories.
What fruits blend well together?
Honestly, anything goes in this category but there are ones that go better together than others.
Trying mixing the berries – strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries.
Thinking tropical? Go with mango, pineapple, and oranges.
Or go with a single fruit like a peach!
And don’t forget about the bananas…they go with EVERYTHING.
Does the fruit need to be frozen or is fresh better?
I have found that frozen fruit works best. It helps blend up the smoothie thicker, adds more flavor than ice and makes for a good cold smoothie.
Plus, frozen fruit is just easy. Grab a handful of frozen fruit from the bag and straight to your blender.
How to get a thick(er) smoothie
Nobody wants a runny smoothie…no one. And adding ice just doesn’t get the “thicker” texture that moves the smoothie into the rockstar category.
Two really good options are yogurt and peanut butter.
For yogurt, my go-to is greek yogurt (get a little extra protein) but any kind will work. A good serving size is 1/2 cup.
For peanut butter and a less messier option, check out the powered peanut butter option (like PB2). A good serving size is 2 tablespoons.
What is the best liquid to use in a smoothie?
Lots of options for this category that start with water and can include juices to milk.
Almond milk is a great option to try out and adds a bit of nutty flavor.
Making a tropical smoothie? Try coconut milk.
For a serving size, start with 1 1/4 cup to make for a perfect consistency.
What “extras” can I throw in there?
I am forever trying to hide my greens in my diet. I am the definition of a total toddler when it comes to veggies and getting the green stuff in.
A smoothie is the perfect place to hide them and you won’t even taste them.
Think spinach or kale. Flax or chia seeds. Or even fresh mint, cinnamon, honey, or vanilla extract.
Should I add protein powder?
For me, adding protein powder helps with the smoothie staying with me a little longer and not being hungry 5 minutes after drinking it.
This does not have to be fancy and can be any protein powder that you like.
For me, my top 2 protein powders are Thrive Pea Protein and Bowmar Nutrition. Recommend 1 scoop.
TIP: When putting the smoothie together, put your liquids at the bottom and powders at the top. This stops clumps from forming.
3 Easy Smoothie Recipes
pina colada smoothie
This is one of the easiest smoothie recipes and is off the charts for the taste category.
Ingredients
2 cups frozen pineapple
3/4 cup coconut milk
3/4 tsp vanilla extract
1 scoop of vanilla protein powder (I use Thrive Vanilla)
Place all the items into the blender making sure to put the protein powder on top and blend until smooth. Can add more coconut milk (or water) if the smoothie is too thick.
Need to adjust the flavor? For creaminess, add more coconut milk. Thicken? Add more pineapple. And if it needs just a little more sweetness, add a dab of honey.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
You had me at chocolate!
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/2 cup vanilla greek yogurt
3 tbsp powdered peanut butter (I use PB2)
1 banana (can be frozen or fresh)
3/4 cup ice
1 scoop chocolate protein powder ( I use Thrive Chocolate)
2 tbsp cocoa powder (optional)
Place all the items into the blender making sure to put the protein powder on top and blend until smooth. Can add more almond milk (or water) if the smoothie is too thick.
banana smoothie
This is my daughter’s favorite. She calls it “banana milk” and I think she would make it everyday if we could keep the bananas stocked in the house.
Ingredients
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/2 cup vanilla greek yogurt
2 bananas (frozen or fresh)
3/4 tsp vanilla extract
Place all the items into the blender and blend until smooth. Can add more almond milk (or water) if the smoothie is too thick.
Want more recipes?
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Wrapping it up!
A smoothie is a quick fix for a meal that any busy mom can have in her back pocket. Taking all ingredients in one blender to a cup that is also completely portable and easy for the car.
For protein powder, I use Thrive (more information HERE) but any protein that meets your needs will work.
For a blender, I have found that a Vitamix and a Magic Bullet work best. Click on the brand name and it will take you to Amazon to get a description of the model we have.
It’s your turn…what smoothie is your absolute favorite?
Oh….and if you liked this post, please share!
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easy smoothie recipes