This smoothie isn’t just fruit and sugar; it’s a balanced meal in a glass. It combines protein, healthy fats, and fiber to prevent a mid-morning crash, making it the perfect way to start your day.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Milk (dairy, almond, oat, or your favorite kind)
• 1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (for a big protein boost)
• 1 cup Frozen Strawberries (using frozen fruit makes the smoothie thick and cold without ice)
• 1/2 large Banana (peeled and preferably frozen in chunks)
• 1 tablespoon Almond Butter or Peanut Butter (for healthy fats and flavor)
• 1 large handful of fresh spinach (optional, but you won’t taste it!)
• 1 tablespoon Rolled Oats or Chia Seeds (optional, for extra fiber and staying power)

Instructions:

1. Load the Blender: Pour the milk into your blender first. This helps the blades spin freely and prevents the thicker ingredients from getting stuck.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the Greek yogurt, spinach (if using), almond butter, and oats/chia seeds (if using). Finally, add the frozen strawberries and banana.
3. Blend Until Smooth: Secure the lid and blend on high for 45-60 seconds, or until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add another splash of milk. If it’s too thin, add a few more frozen berries.
4. Serve Immediately: Pour into a glass and enjoy your nutritious breakfast!

Customization and Tips:

• Protein Powder Swap: You can easily substitute the Greek yogurt with one scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder.
• Make it Sweeter: If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. The banana usually provides enough sweetness on its own.
• Change the Fruit: Feel free to swap the strawberries for any other frozen fruit like mixed berries, mango, or peaches.
• Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond or peanut butter.
• Meal Prep Smoothie Packs: For ultra-fast mornings, portion the banana, strawberries, spinach, and oats/chia seeds into individual freezer bags. When you’re ready for a smoothie, just dump the contents of one bag into the blender, add your milk and yogurt/protein powder, and blend!