Smoothies have long been a staple in the health and wellness industry. When made with the right ingredients, and the right amount of ingredients, they can be a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet.
It’s also easy to fall into a routine with smoothie-making. My go-to is always a handful of fresh berries, a frozen banana, a cup of yogurt, and almond milk or water to top it off. And don’t get me wrong, I love it! But switching it up from time to time and sneaking in a new ingredient or two can help give your body the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it may not get often enough otherwise, and occasionally add a fresh boost of flavor, too!
Here are ten of my favorite smoothie add-ins.
10 Smoothie Ingredients
to Increase Nutrition + Flavor
Avocado //
Adds a thick and creamy texture, and you likely won’t notice any changes in flavor. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, Vitamin K, folate, fiber and more, and are low in carbs and saturated fats. More.
Matcha //
Adds a slight earthy flavor, depending on other ingredients used. Matcha contains loads of antioxidants (including EGCs), caffeine, chlorophyll, and high levels of important vitamins – like A, C, Iron, and Calcium. More.
Zucchini //
Does not alter flavor or texture of smoothie overall. Zucchini provides your body with a boost of potassium, folate, and magnesium, which all work together to promote heart health, plus vitamins A, C, and Calcium. More.
Pineapple Juice //
Adds a sweet flavor boost! Pineapple juice is known to help reduce inflammation, bloating, and asthma symptoms, improve heart and eye health, and even fight cancer with its high levels of manganese, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C. More.
Dates //
Adds a hint of sweetness. I use them in smoothies that wouldn’t otherwise be “sweet enough.” Dates contain lots of fiber, calcium, sulfur, iron, potassium, and several more vitamins and minerals, which work to regulate a healthy digestive system, maintain bone health and strength, boost energy, and fight allergies, among other benefits. More.
Honey //
Also adds a hint of sweetness. The benefits of honey seem endless, but just to name a few: it’s been proven to help boost energy, mood, and the immune system, relieve symptoms related to allergies, eczema, acid reflux, cough, and sinus issues, and may help to improve cholesterol and memory, and to fight cancer. More.
Beets //
Add a strong, earthy flavor and create a beautiful color. Beets are bursting with vitamins and minerals that help to improve blood pressure and heart health, improve stamina and brain function, and regulate the digestive system. More.
Coconut Water //
Adds little to no flavor once other ingredients are added in. Coconut water contains fiber, protein, magnesium, manganese, potassium, and antioxidants, and is simply a great source of hydration! More.
Chia Seeds //
Adds a little texture, but no flavor. Chia seeds are chalk full of fiber, omega-3s, protein, and antioxidants. And the way they expand in fluid help you to feel fuller, longer. More.
Acai //
Adds very little, if any, fruity flavor. Acai contains high amounts of antioxidants that help to boost energy, aid in weight loss, promote skin health and digestion, and strengthen the immune system. More.
Cherry + Orange Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen cherries
- 1 orange, peeled
- 1 small zucchini, peeled and chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup water or almond milk
- 2 medjool dates, pitted OR 2 tbsp. honey
- 1 handful spinach (optional)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional)
Directions
- Blend all ingredients together until well combined.
- Add additional water, if needed, until desired consistency is reached.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy!
What are your favorite smoothie add-ins? I’m sure there hundreds I’ve yet to try!
xo, Aly