When’s the last time you got your child to eat a serving of raw kale?
My kids did yesterday. Trust me, it’s not because they’re angels or have a varied diet. My 2 year old thinks cereal bars are a food group.
Photo Credited To Two Peas In Their Pod.com
I’m happy to share my secrets so that children far and wide can get greens into their little bellies.
5 Secrets for Yummy Green Smoothies
1. Blend the greens and liquid first: Whether you use dairy or non-dairy milk, kefir, yogurt, or water, make sure you give the greens and the smoothie base some ample time together. That way you’ll avoid the–what I like to call–”bits”. I dislike a mouthful of sweet smoothie marred by green bits! And so do my kids. Eliminate those bits by blending them alone–it’s worth the extra step.
2. Frozen bananas are a must: Peel a bunch of ripe bananas. Break them into thirds, toss them in a sealed container and store in the freezer. One or two of those suckers provide great texture and extra sweetness. A smoothie without a banana isn’t a smoothie as far as I’m concerned.
3. Use fresh fruit when possible: The difference between frozen fruit and fresh is pretty noticeable. Fresh isn’t always possible, and frozen is a great cost-effective way to supplement your produce. But when possible, a few sweet berries or a ripe peach makes a world of difference when it comes to taste.
4. Add a little sweetener: My favorite right now is honey. A squeeze of honey in a batch of smoothie really ups the sweet factor. You can also try agave nectar or even a small pinch of sugar. But try to steer clear from artificial sweeteners.
5. Use frozen spinach or kale: They tend to blend more easily. Not to mention, they’re easier to keep on hand. And cheap! But remember that those veggies are more condensed. So about 1/4 cup per 8 oz of smoothie is green enough, if you ask me.
5 Delicious Smoothie Recipes
Looking for some good smoothie recipes? Here are 5 great smoothie ideas from around the web that are sure to please your childrens’ taste buds. Just don’t forget to blend the greens first–it’s the best kept secret, I swear!
Rabbit Food For My Bunny Teeth
Thanks for the shout out!
~Stephanie
Thanks for a great recipe! I’m a peanut butter junkie and I love how much protein and fiber this smoothie has! Can’t wait for my kids to try it.