Health & Nutrition: Non Fruit Smoothie Recipe

I've been on a major smoothie kick lately. I think it has something to do with the nice weather that we're finally getting in Chicago. Also, my parents generously gave Jay and I a Vitamix for our recent wedding shower and I've been obsessed with using it. You wouldn't believe how much of a difference it makes. It's worth every single penny!

I was previously putting a lot of fruit (way too much actually) in my smoothies. I decided to not put any in one day to see if it would taste okay without it. To my surprise, I loved the taste and didn't miss the fruit at all.

I've been having these for breakfasts lately and am surprised on how full they make me. Usually I'm hungry again in just a few short hours, but these keep me full until I can take a break at work.

What you'll need:

One generous handful of almonds or another nut of your choice

One scoop protein powder (I use vanilla egg white protein)

A generous handful of spinach or another green of your choice (I promise you won't taste it!)

1 cup of almond milk or another liquid of choice

1 tablespoon chia seeds

1 tablespoon flax seeds

4 ice cubes

A few dashes of cinnamon

What to do:

1. Put all contents into your mixer and blend for a minute or two.

2. Put in a large cup and enjoy!

Super quick, easy and so good for you! I hope I keep up with these through the summer.

Do you have any smoothie recipes you're loving lately? Share them below in the comments!

Nutrition: How to Pump up Your Oatmeal

I'm a huge believer that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If I don't eat a huge protein packed meal in the morning I'm hungry within the hour. It keeps me moving and ready to tackle whatever challenges I have to face that day. 

I've recently been adding a ton of protein and healthy fats to my oatmeal and it's made a huge difference. I'm full for way longer and feel more energized and complete. There are so many flavor combinations you can try to keep it interesting. I have been sticking to my normal mixture lately, but it's fun to mix it up every once in a while. 

What you'll need:

1/2 cup oats (I used the gluten-free kind from Trader Joe's)

1/2 cup water 

1/2 cup milk of your choice (I used almond milk)

1 heaping tablespoon of peanut butter or any nut butter of your choice

1 teaspoon flax seeds 

1 teaspoon chia seeds 

1 scoop protein powder (I used vanilla egg white protein)

Any other mix ins you'd like such as bananas, nuts, berries, raisins, etc. 

What to do:

Combine the 1/2 cup oats, 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup milk in a microwave safe bowl and microwave on high for 2-2 1/2 minutes 

Stir mixture to combine and let sit for a minute 

Add your peanut butter, flax seeds, chia seeds, protein powder and any other fruits or nuts and stir to combine 

Enjoy!

This breakfast has been such a staple for me over these chilly winter months. I look forward to it every morning and love how great I feel after! 

Do you have any breakfast meals you love to eat that keep you full throughout the morning? Share in the comments below!