Inspired by summer weather, beaches, and exotic getaways, I wanted to make a quick,nutrient dense and ENERGIZING smoothie. I recently bought a basil plant (because it’s so beautiful and fragrant) so I figured I should try to incorporate the gorgeous herb into my smoothie recipe.
Basil is a herb that people generally associate with savoury dishes such as pastas and pizzas but, believe it or not, it can be used in sweet treats as well! Basil is praised for it’s natural anti-bacterial properties which can help ward off infections. It posses an enzyme called cyclooxygenase which is an anti inflammatory. Eating anti inflammatory foods help to reduce the risk of illness and can minimize symptoms of disturbed bowel health.
Look for some organic basil the next time you’re at the market, and get creative with it!
Here is my recipe for a Tropical Treat Protein Smoothie!
This is a GREAT pre-workout smoothie (try adding 2 medjool dates for that extra oomph 😉 )
1/2 cup frozen mango
1/2 frozen raspberries
1/2-1 cup fresh or frozen spinach
fresh basil (I added about 8 leaves)
handful of sprouts (pea shoots or sunflower sprouts)- loaded with enzymes!
1 nub of fresh ginger (or as much as you like)
juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 tbsp coconut oil-natural energizer to help fuel your workouts!
1 cup coconut water
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 scoop glutamine – improves gut health and speeds up recovery between workouts!
water (until desired consistency is achieved)
Blend all ingredients together, serve and enjoy!
Salud!
Written by: Anna Hennigs CNP
