Energy-Boosting Smoothie

Energy-Boosting Avocado Spinach Smoothie

One thing I swear by when it comes to weight loss, fat loss, muscle building, and general health, is drinking a delicious, nutrient-packed smoothie every day. I usually drink mine first thing in the morning to kick-start my day, and when I’m stuck at work for a long time, I’ll bring the ingredients and make one there for me as well. Not only will this smoothie detox your system and provide you with much-needed nutrients, but it will also help your hair, skin, and nails look and feel amazing, and it will also help curb cravings throughout the day. And if you need any more reasons to join me in this healthy habit, just know that it tastes great too!

The really important ingredient in this smoothie is the avocado. Avocados are packed with healthy fats, which give you energy that doesn’t leave you “crashing” later on, unlike sugar. They also work wonders for your skin and hair, and they give any smoothie a great thick consistency. For more info on healthy fats, check out this article where I talk about it in more depth.

One more quick note here: If it at all possible, be sure to buy organic fruit and vegetables. Not only do they taste better, but you don’t want to blend up all the pesticides and that crap in your healthy smoothie. It kind of defeats the purpose.. If something is not available organic at your grocery store, just wash it really well with cold water before you slice, eat, or blend it.

Ingredients:

  • Handful of spinach
  • 1/4 of an avocado (work up to putting in a half if you want)
  • 1/4 of a cucumber
  • 2 baby carrots
  • 1 celery stalk
  • 1/4 cup non-fat Greek yogurt (I like the flavored kind, but plain is technically better for you. This part is optional.)
  • 1 banana
  • Juice from 1/2 a lemon
  • 1/4 cup of orange juice, or a couple orange slices squeezed in (the OJ is also optional. It helps with the taste, but it does add extra sugar to the smoothie)
  • a handful of blueberries and strawberries
  • about 1/2 cup of water (make sure the liquid combined isn’t too much. Start with less water and add it if it needs more)
  • a cup of ice

Blend all ingredients and enjoy!

I want to know what you think! Leave comments and questions below 🙂

If you liked this recipe, make sure you check out my other juicing recipes, and my new favorite homemade protein bars!

 

Baked Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

Want to eat healthy AND delicious food? This chicken is quick, easy, and to die for.

Baked Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

Baked Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken
Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 3 teaspoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 500°F and lightly grease a casserole dish.
  2. In small sauté pan, sauté garlic with the oil until tender.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in brown sugar.
  4. Place chicken breasts in a prepared baking dish and cover with the garlic and brown sugar mixture.
  5. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Bake uncovered for 15-30 minutes.

Original Recipe: http://www.food.com/recipe/easy-garlic-chicken-5478