Get into the holiday spirit with this nutritious Christmas Smoothie! Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it’s the perfect festive treat to boost your energy while indulging in the flavours of the season.
Ingredients (serves 2):
- 1 ripe banana (Potassium and natural sweetness)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (Low-calorie source of calcium and vitamin E)
- 1/2 cup frozen cranberries (Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (Boosts immunity with vitamin C)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Anti-inflammatory properties)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (Promotes digestion and adds festive flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (Aids digestion and helps with nausea)
- 1 tablespoon almond butter (optional, Healthy fats and protein)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, Natural sweetness in moderation)
- A pinch of ground cloves (optional, Rich in antioxidants)
- Ice cubes (optional, For a refreshing texture)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender: banana, almond milk, cranberries, orange juice, spices, almond butter, and optional sweetener.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Add ice cubes for a frosty touch if desired.
- Taste, adjust sweetness or spices, and blend again if needed.
- Pour into glasses, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cranberry, and enjoy!
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: ~150 (depending on sweetener and almond butter)
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Sugars: ~20g (natural sugars from fruit)
- Fat: ~3g (higher if almond butter is used)
- Vitamin C: ~50% of the recommended daily intake (from cranberries and orange juice)
- Potassium: ~300mg (from banana)
- Calcium: ~20% of the recommended daily intake (from almond milk)
- Vitamin E: ~10% of the recommended daily intake (from almond milk)
Health Benefits:
- Boosts Immunity: Cranberries and orange juice are rich in vitamin C, essential for fighting off winter colds.
- Supports Digestion: Ginger and nutmeg aid in calming the stomach and enhancing gut health.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Cinnamon and cloves are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and supporting joint health.
- Sustained Energy: Banana and almond butter provide a balance of natural sugars and protein for lasting energy.
- Antioxidant Power: Cranberries, cloves, and cinnamon help fight free radicals and support overall health.
Sip your way to a healthier, happier holiday season with this festive and flavourful smoothie! 🎅✨
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