What’s not to like about smoothies?
Taste good. Check. Nutritious. Check. Easy. Check.
Kids love them. Adults love them. I love them.
I have a few favorites but, this Red Velvet Smoothie is my current “go to” breakfast drink. It’s especially good when I’m on the run. It can be blended up very quickly and really holds back my appetite until lunch time.
The photo doesn’t do justice to the rich dark red chocolate color that the cherries impart. So, if you want to see how very pretty it is you’ll have to dust off your blender and whip one up for yourself.
Any of you have a favorite smoothie recipe to share? I’d love to hear about some of your creative combos.
For another delicious way to start your day visit the Gluten-free Goddess for Karina’s Strawberry Hemp Milk Smoothie and a great selection of smoothies—including TSP’s very own Red Velvet Smoothie—from other food bloggers.
You’ll also want to visit Diane Elbin’s (The W.H.O.L.E. Gang) Friday’s Foodie Fix for more great cherry recipes.
Red Velvet Smoothie
1 cup hemp milk
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 banana
10-12 frozen bing cherries
2 tablespoons rolled GF oats (optional)
2 teaspoons ground flax
2 tablespoons hemp protein powder
Place all the ingredients in a blender. Whir until smooth. Pour in a glass and enjoy.
Notes:
I like hemp milk for smoothies because of it’s thick and creamy texture. Feel free to substitute any dairy or non-dairy milk.
Use fresh bing cherries when they’re in season. You may want to add a few ice cubes if you do. Smoothies are best when they’re cold.
Use any sweetener you like—regular or brown sugar or agave. You could try honey or maple syrup but their flavors are a bit stronger.
And, any protein powder will work. I happen to use hemp but you can use whey, soy or rice protein powder if you prefer.
Feel free to experiment!