Sippin’ Smart: Your Guide to Healthy and Delicious Smoothies

Being able to nourish yourself while also being protective of your time and your pocketbook—and also not compromising on taste—can feel like a big lift. Fortunately, with a few basic ingredients and a blender, you can create delicious smoothies that are healthy, satisfying, and easy to eat whether you’re on your way out the door or sitting down to relax. At Nick’s of Calvert, our team is here to help you find the ingredients you’re looking for when you shop in-store. Reach out today with any questions.

Why Smoothies?

If you’re looking for a quick and easy snack, a smoothie is a great option. Some of the top reasons that we love smoothies include:

• You can pack them full of nutritious foods, even those you maybe don’t like on their own. For example, a smoothie can be a great vessel for spinach, ginger, kale, protein powders, etc. 
• They’re oh-so-easy! All it takes is a few ingredients and a blender and wham—you have a delicious and nutritious treat, snack, or meal replacement. The hardest part is probably cleaning up. 
• They’re versatile—whether you are trying to find something to add protein or greens, a specific vitamin or fat, and whether you want something you can eat as a snack, a pre- or post-workout, a dessert, or even a full meal, a smoothie gives you options.

In addition to the above, smoothies can be tailored for everyone in your house, regardless of age. They can be made to be energy-dense, high-protein, packed with macros, or aligned with a variety of different diets, from keto to vegan. They can provide a balanced source of energy all in a single cup! 

How to Shop for Smoothie Ingredients

When you’re shopping for smoothie ingredients, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, remember that the higher the quality of the ingredients you choose, the tastier the final product will be. What’s more, higher-quality ingredients are often tastier, too! Whenever you can, buy organic. Because smoothies can disguise or mask otherwise unpleasant flavors to some, as discussed above, don’t be afraid to challenge yourself to incorporate things you normally wouldn’t choose!

Another tip for shopping is to choose frozen ingredients, like mixed berries. (Alternatively, you could always freeze fresh ingredients at home.) By using frozen fruits or produce, you’ll avoid having to use ice to get that cool, creamy smoothie texture. 

Add-ins for Smoothies

In order to make a smoothie, you typically need at least one solid ingredient (e.g. banana) and a liquid. However, you should certainly not limit yourself to just these! Some ideas for smoothies include:

• Fruits: bananas, berries, citrus (but note citrus can be hard to blend, so better to squeeze the juice), etc. – the list is endless! 
• Veggies: spinach, arugula, ginger, pumpkin, beets, sweet potatoes, bell peppers… 
• Liquid: Milk (animal- or plant-based), coconut milk, orange juice, or another juice of choice
• Fats: Avocado, coconut oil, cacao, coconut cream, yogurt
• Toppings: coconut, granola, cacao nibs, cinnamon, sea salt, cayenne, seeds/nuts, turmeric, dried fruit
• Other: protein powder, matcha powder, nut butters, coffee, flax, chia 

If you’re doing a smoothie to replace a meal or as a post-workout, it may be a good idea to add in some protein powder, which will leave you feeling fuller for longer and provide your muscles with the much-needed nourishment they require. Using healthy fats, like avocados and coconut oil, can also help you to feel full and provide a stable source of energy. 

What to Watch Out for

While smoothies are yummy and generally healthy, be aware of the temptation to just make fruit-based smoothies with a fruit-based liquid. This can be a huge rush of sugar, spiking insulin levels and giving you a burst of energy only to lead to a crash later. One benefit that smoothies do have over just juices, though, is that they have higher fiber content. 

Get Everything You Need for Smooth(ie) Living Today 

For fresh fruits and vegetables, organic produce, a wide variety of animal and plant milks to choose from, and so much more, the best place to shop for your smoothie ingredients is Nick’s of Calvert. If you’re transitioning to a healthier lifestyle or just looking for a way to make your life a little easier, we have you covered. And it doesn’t end at smoothies — check out our selection of snacks, pre-made foods, beverages, and more! To learn more about Nick’s of Calvert or to ask a question, call 410-414-7105 today.