While we can't recommend asparagus or cheddar-flavored drinks, we encourage you to experiment, using this road map to the ultimate healthy blended beverage.
Instructions
Step 1: Choose fruit and juice Choose your fruit and fruit juice.
TIP: A variety of flavors mixed together can make for the most satisfying smoothie—a few dashes of cranberry juice or a squeeze of lime may be just what that O.J. and banana combo needs.
Step 2: Peel, pit, or de-seed fruit Peel, pit, or de-seed your fruit if necessary.
Step 3: Put in fruit, add juice Put the fruit in the blender, and add the juice.
TIP: For a sweet smoothie, add 1 or 2 tablespoons of honey. For a cold one, add 6 to 8 ice cubes. And for an extra health kick, throw in protein powder, wheat germ, bee pollen, or flaxseed.
Step 4: Add milk, cream, or yogurt Add the milk, light cream, or yogurt to give the smoothie a rich and silky texture.
Step 5: Blend Put the lid on the blender, and blend at a medium speed until smooth.
TIP: Running your blender too high will turn your creation into glorified fruit juice. Running it too slow will leave behind large chunks of unblended fruit.
Step 6: Taste Stop the blender and do a taste test, then make any necessary adjustments, adding yogurt or ice to thicken, honey to sweeten.
Step 7: Pour and serve Pour your smoothie into the glass, and serve.
FACT: The South American variant of the smoothie is called a 'licuado,' as in 'liquefied' or 'blended.'
