My poor husband is probably getting sick of my constant smoothie making. I find that it’s all I really want during the summer months, because of the heat. Cold breakfasts are what I crave, and always seem to hit the spot after a hot run.
I have to learn to keep variety in our smoothie routine, so we don’t get burnt out. It’s easy to tweak smoothies, to add a different taste. Some days, we go simple and other days I go all out. I guess you could say this smoothie is somewhere inbetween.
With fresh produce at hand, I need to use some greens up before they go bad. My favorite greens in smoothies are kale, spinach, and chard. I call them the power trio. Kale from the garden is amazing. I almost feel bad using it, like it’s alive and I am killing it somehow….I know weird.
I slipped in some maca powder to add some much needed energy into our lives. With a baby at home and 90+ degree temps, energy is something I have been lacking. Maca powder is made from maca root, an ancient superfood that supplies nourishment and healing. It’s native to Bolivia and Peru. It has been known to help with stress and help to support the endocrine system. It is a natural energizer without the crash or jitters, and has been noted to increase fertility and aid in reproductive function.
Maca is a good source of plant protein, high in B vitamins, as well as vitamin C and E and the minerals potassium, selenium, iron, magnesium and calcium. It’s also high in fiber and contains fatty acids. So yes, a superfood indeed, and one most runners would appreciate. It’s an antioxidant and increases strength and endurance. It has a strong taste, so sometimes it’s best to start small when adding it into foods. Great in cookies, smoothies, and protein bites.
I added a heaping tablespoon to our smoothies, but if you haven’t tried maca I suggest 1-2 teaspoons. With the avocado and greens, this smoothie is a nutritional powerhouse. That’s why it’s the Green Power Machine. With greens supplying lots of antioxidants and nutrients, maca adding phytonutrients and minerals, and avocado bringing essential fatty acids to the party, this smoothie does business. It also has coconut water, a great source of potassium
- 1 c coconut water
- 1 c almond, coconut or cashew milk
- 1-2 scoops protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
- ½ avocado
- 1 frozen banana
- 2 big handfuls of greens (chard, kale, spinach)
- 1 Tbs maca powder (I suggest 1-2 tsp as it has a strong taste)
- Ice, optional
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- I start with liquids, then powder, avocado, banana, greens and ice.
- Divide between two cups and enjoy.
Until Next Time Be Whole and Be Fit
Have you tried maca powder before?