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Smoothies & MORE is about eating healthy. Learning new and inventive ways to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet. With the assistance of the Smoothies & MORE Blog, you will learn how to create recipes that will suit your palate, as well as, enjoying a healthy experience for you and your family ... ♥♥

Friday, May 4, 2012

Tips on making DELICIOUSLY SMOOTH SMOOTHIES ...

Tips on making Deliciously Smooth Smoothies

 

Smoothies aren't as complicated as many people think. They are very healthy, high in fiber, they have many calories and nutrients, enough to count as a whole meal. To enjoy this delicious treat, all you need is a blender and and inventive attitude (a pretty glass will do as well).

A good blender can run you in the price range of $100 up to $300 or more, of course that's for the high quality ones. You can find a nice blender for $40 to $60. A resale shop would be a good source to find an old style to a fairly new one. It's completely up to you and how much you're willing to spend.

Here are a few tips that will get you on your way to making Deliciously Smooth Smoothies ...

Tips on making DELICIOUSLY SMOOTH SMOOTHIES ...               
  1. Clean your Fruit: Always wash and inspect your fruit first. Remove any rough parts of the fruit, i.e. stems, seeds, skin, peelings. At this time you can cut the fruits and veggies to fit before you placing them in the blender.  
  2. The use of Frozen Fruits: When using frozen fruits there is no need to add ice to your smoothie. You will have a "icy cold" beverage as it warms down while you're drinking it. You can add any combination of fruits and vegetables to your smoothie. Don't be afraid to experiment. A great way to save time is to place your fresh cut fruits and vegetables in the freezer beforehand. 
  3.  Adding your Liquids: You can add any liquids of your choice to the smoothie. Liquids should be added first before your fruits and vegetables go into the blender. Any type of yogurt, milk or juice, coconut waters or just plain water would be sufficient in making a smooth textured smoothie. You determine the thickness by how much or how little of liquid you choose to add. 
  4.  Blend on low first and gradually proceed to high: if using a blender with various speed levels using the pulse lever to chop first and then proceed to the various speeds. Low to high will insure a smooth and creamy blend.
  5. If you can't eat 'em, drink 'em: You can make some delicious soup recipes in the blender. A nice chilled watermelon or cantaloupe soup even a gazpacho soup can be made in the blender. If you choose to do this, don't freeze your fruits and veggies.
  6.  What about the EXTRAS?: You can add any extras YOU like. If it's protein powder you like, add it. If it's flavorings you like, add 'em. There is no particular rule of thumb when it comes to making the smoothie of your choice. Just make it GOOD!
  7.  Remember this is your smoothie: What ever you think would be a good smoothie idea for you, is not too far fetched. You don't have to have all fruit or all vegetable, mix it up. Take advantage of making your smoothie. The benefits of drinking your fruits and vegetables this way, are far more greater than you trying eat them. 
  8.  Take Your Time: Although you are gonna want to gulp down this delicious drink. Slowly drink and don't forget to chew as you began to swallow. By doing this it will help with digestion, remember this is a meal your consuming. Also your body will have the chance to react as it becomes full.
So now that you know the tips on how to make deliciously smooth smoothies. How about making yourself one! Don't for get to share your ideas and post 'em up on this page ... Remember Smoothies Are MOORE! ...

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Strawberry Melon Salad


Strawberry Melon Salad ...

 
This salad was exciting to make. Although I love to eat fruit. I don't always like to have it the traditional way. Who said you had to eat watermelon off the rind or cut up up in a bowl (hey I do like it like that ~.*) I'm getting side tracked. Back to the salad OK! OK!  ... It's always nice to sit in front of the tube (TV that is, OK Cable!) with a good salad on hand enjoying my favorite show(s). What better way to welcome spring, all the beautiful vegetable colors. Watermelon with a few little buddies make up a wonderful delight for your belly, taste buds too!  


Here's what I pared the watermelon up with ...

Seedless Watermelon Chunks, Cantaloupe Chunks, Mandarin Oranges, English Cucumbers and Tomato and Basil Feta Cheese (I love this stuff ~.~) on a bed of  Fresh Romaine Salad Greens 













Top it off with your favorite salad dressing or vinaigrette and .... ENJOY! ♥