I start my day with a smoothie, and I used to struggle to make one with a substantial amount of calories. Over the last few months, my recipes always include these surprising smoothie add-ons.
1. Mushrooms
My friend Haley, suggested adding frozen mushrooms to my smoothie. I thought she was absolutely insane. Mushrooms? Gross! Once I tried it, I was a huge fan. I usually get a few boxes of assorted mushrooms and pop them in the freezer. I add 1/2 a cup to my smoothie each morning.
Here’s Why: They are a low-calorie source of fiber. They are rich in choline, selenium, and vitamin C.
2. Avocado
I stopped putting a banana in my smoothie a few months ago, since I prefer having one as an afternoon snack. I was craving a creamy texture and avocado delivers just that. Whole Foods sells frozen avocado chunks, and they have become a complete game-changer for my morning smoothie. I add 1/2 cup or frozen avocado chunks or 1/2 a regular avocado to my smoothie.
Here’s Why: It is a high-calorie and high “good fat” food. Full of vitamin C, B Vitamins, and vitamin E. Avocados also contain more potassium than bananas and are loaded with fiber.
3. Chia Seeds
My mom is the one who tuned me into chia seeds. They don’t exactly taste like much, but I do like the texture they add to my morning smoothie. Chia seeds are a superfood that adds a nice crunch.
Here’s Why: More fiber? Sign me up! Chia seeds are also filled with fiber and protein. 2 tablespoons contain 4 grams of protein.
What else goes into my morning smoothie?
My recipe fluctuates depending on the day. I always include my surprising smoothie add-ons. Here are the ingredients I like to have on hand:
- spinach
- green apple
- frozen berries
- raw almond butter
- ginger root
- sweet potato (cooked and softened)
- Collagen peptides
