Spring Fling: Green Super Smoothie and Chocolate Super Smoothie

Hello! My name is Raia, and I blog over at Raia’s Recipes  where I share all my allergy-free creations that pass the inspection of my four crazy kiddos. :) 

I don’t know about you, but I am so thankful spring is here!  Along with the fresh blooms, park dates, and warm weather comes one of my favorite times of year: smoothie time! So when Dianna invited me to post to her “Spring Fling” event, I knew immediately what I was going to share. :) 

With four kids in the house, I try to make my smoothies something that will not only taste good, but also provide much needed nutrients for their little growing bodies. These two “Super Smoothies” fill both those roles! Let’s unpack some of the goodness...

Beginning with the probiotic benefits of yogurt, I like to add water kefir to get some prebiotic in as well. Never heard of kefir? It’s an old school Russian drink made by fermenting kefir grains (don’t worry - they’re not actual grain) in either milk or water. You can learn how to make it over on my site. It’s super easy and contains even more helpful bacteria than yogurt!

On top of these two amazing ingredients I like to add bunches of fresh fruits and veggies. Avocado gives the smoothies their luscious thickness, while providing healthy fat and loads of potassium, and banana adds a good dose of fiber and manganese (good for healthy bones, liver, and pancreas). For a super-D-dooper (as my 7-year old says) dose of vitamins A, K, and folate, throw in some spinach! Or, for a sweeter treat, add in a little raw cocoa powder and honey.

Now, let’s make some smoothies!

Green Super Smoothie

1 c. plain yogurt

1 c. kefir

1 banana

1 avocado

2 large handfuls spinach

1 apple

1 t. vanilla (optional)

1 c. ice

Chocolate Super Smoothie

1 c. yogurt

1 c. kefir

2 bananas

1 avocado

2 T. cocoa powder

1-2 T. honey

1 t. vanilla (optional)

1/4 t. salt

1 c. ice

Both versions are simple to make, just puree everything in a blender and enjoy!

Like these smoothies? Check out my blog Raia’s Recipes  for more healthy, tasty, allergy-free food, or follow along on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, or Pinterest!