Avocado & Apple Smoothie
Avocado & Apple Smoothie
Description
This Avocado & Apple Smoothie is a creamy, refreshing drink packed with fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins. The smooth texture of avocado blends perfectly with the crisp sweetness of apples, creating a balanced and nourishing smoothie. It’s ideal for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or a post-workout replenishment.
Servings
Yield: 2 servings
Serving Size: ~1 cup (250ml)
Ingredients
- 1 ripe avocado (peeled and pitted)
- 1 medium green apple (cored and chopped)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- ½ banana (for natural sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup ice cubes (or chilled water for a smoother texture)
- Juice of ½ lemon (prevents browning and adds a zesty kick)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients:
- Wash the apple and chop it into small pieces (leave skin on for extra fiber).
- Scoop out the avocado and peel the banana.
- Blend:
- Add the apple, avocado, banana, almond milk, lemon juice, and cinnamon to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Add honey/maple syrup if extra sweetness is desired.
- Adjust Consistency:
- Add ice cubes or a little extra milk/water to reach your preferred thickness.
- Serve Immediately:
- Pour into glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a thin apple slice.
Tips & Notes
- Apple Choice: Use green apples for a tart flavor, or red apples (like Fuji or Gala) for more sweetness.
- Avocado Ripeness: Make sure the avocado is soft and ripe for best texture and flavor.
- Add Protein: Add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder to make it a meal.
- Make it Vegan: Use maple syrup and plant-based milk options.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. If storing, refrigerate in an airtight container and consume within 12 hours.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 27 g |
| Sugars | 16 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Potassium | 650 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Vitamin E | 10% DV |
Values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients.
Health Benefits
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which help support heart health.
- Digestive Support: Apples and avocados are high in fiber, promoting gut health.
- Energy Boost: The natural sugars and fats provide sustained energy.
- Skin & Eye Health: Packed with antioxidants, Vitamin E, and C for glowing skin and eye protection.
- Blood Sugar Friendly: Low glycemic index with fiber and fat to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can make it up to 12 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge in a sealed jar with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes! Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. Blend cubes later with a bit of milk for a quick smoothie.
Q: What can I use instead of banana?
A: Try mango, dates, or a small amount of soaked oats for texture and sweetness.
Q: Is it suitable for weight loss?
A: Yes, when portion-controlled. It’s high in fiber and healthy fats, which promote satiety.
Q: Can I use cow’s milk instead of almond milk?
A: Absolutely. Any milk works, though nutritional content may vary.
