Smoothies: A Healthy, Summer Treat

 

When you think of hot summer days, you might also think of the official summer treat, ice cream! Is there any better way to cool down on a hot summer day? Well, the short answer is yes! While we would never tell you not to enjoy your ice cream, we do have a healthier, just as delicious option to cool you down… Drum roll, please…. Smoothies! Summer smoothies are a great alternative to ice cream.

The beautiful thing about smoothies is that the options are endless, completely customizable, and the process is simple. If you have a blender, you’re just about ready to go. Smoothies are also a great way to get your daily fruits and veggies in. Do you hate spinach? Throw a handful in your smoothie! Depending on what other ingredients you pair it with, you can’t even taste it. Today, we will share our signature summer smoothie, a crowd favorite among our senior living residents at UMC at Bristol Glen! This smoothie recipe is not only good to add to your daily diet, but it’s also the perfect way to cool down in the summer heat.

Strawberry Watermelon Smoothie Recipe

Ingredients:

• 10 oz frozen strawberries
• 3 cups fresh watermelon chunks
• ½ cup of greek yogurt
• A few slices of banana for natural sweetness
• Extra ice if needed
• Blender

Instructions:

1. Grab your blender and add in the watermelon chunks first, then add in the strawberries. (The water from the watermelon will make the strawberries easier to blend).
2. Next, add your Greek yogurt for some creaminess.
3. Blend until smooth and give it a taste. Add more ice if necessary.
4. Pour into a glass, serve, and enjoy immediately!

Bonus: If you have some leftover smoothie that you can’t finish in one siting, pour it into a freezer-friendly container and make your own ice cream! Popsicle molds are a great option too!

Customize Your Own Smoothie

We are big advocates for smoothies because they can be easily customized to meet your nutritional needs and flavor preferences. If you’re not a watermelon fan, you can always swap it out for blueberries – but in that case, you’ll need to add some liquid like milk or water. Start with a splash and add more as needed. Some of our other favorite smoothies are peach mango, blueberry pie, and a peanut butter banana smoothie. A simple Google search will bring you thousands of smoothie recipes to try, or you can have some fun and experiment yourself for a delicious, one-of-a-kind recipe.

Delicious, Healthy Meals at UMC at Bristol Glen

Our beloved chefs at UMC at Bristol Glen are always trying out new recipes and are happy to modify any meal based on a resident’s preference or dietary needs. Whether it’s smoothies or summer salads, every dish is nutrient-rich, portion-controlled, absolutely delicious, and made with love! Our chefs understand how important good nutrition is in order for seniors to have happy, healthy, and independent lifestyles.

For more information about our healthy meals or independent living community in Sussex County NJ, give us a call at  (973) 370-9022  or visit our website: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/smoothies-a-healthy-summer-treat/