In my process of learning the art of cooking, I love when I find a recipe that is simple and really delicious. I recently shared my simplified version of veggie stir fry adapted from the original post with Callie of Luv Cooks. Now, I am excited to give you my simplified summer smoothie recipe!
Our Ninja blender was one of those kitchen items we registered for but didn't know exactly what to do with. (I know, a blender seems simple, but I'm telling y'all, I am slowly but surely overcoming my intimidation of all things kitchen and cooking related!) It was such a generous gift that we were grateful to receive, but it took several months for me to get in the groove of using it. Now, my Ninja blender is my best friend for making my favorite smoothie. Also, this simplified smoothie isn't just for summer, but it's something we enjoy all year long!
Aside from the bag of frozen fruit, all the ingredients for this smoothie are things we regularly have on hand, so it's easy to make on a whim. Also, there is no added sugar other than the natural sugars in the ingredients, yet it is still so sweet and refreshing! Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, it's a winner in my book. I hope you will enjoy it just as much as we do!
Ingredients
1 bag of frozen berries (we have tried several brands, and the Cascadian Farm organic harvest berries are the best!)
1 cup orange juice (Simply Orange has our hearts)
A handful or two of spinach or kale (I prefer spinach for it's milder taste)
1/2 banana broken into pieces
4 to 6 ice cubes
splash of water (this is up to your preference if you like a thicker or smoother texture for your smoothie)
Directions
Put the spinach or kale in first (it's so lightweight and this allows it to get weighted down by the other ingredients so it mixes in well instead of flying all around the blender.)
Top greens with frozen berries followed by OJ, splash of water, bananas and ice cubes
Run blender on top speed until smoothie reaches desired consistency
If you want your smoothie to be smoother, add fewer ice cubes and more water.
Recipe yields 4 servings (or double servings for two, which is how we often enjoy it!)
Enjoy this delicious treat! I also like to put it in a fun cup because it makes it all the more special to enjoy! What are your favorite smoothies or things you make in a blender? I'd love to learn from you!