The Best Ingredients for Making Winter Smoothies
Smoothies are a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and veggies! But during the cooler winter weather, it can be hard to enjoy these normally frozen or icy mixtures.
With cold and flu season strong during the winter, it’s important to get the necessary vitamins to power your immune system.
At 3Natives, we strive to serve exciting food that’s packed with healthy ingredients year-round. To us, it’s all about finding ways to make healthy food taste good.
So, what fruits, vegetables, or spices are great for winter smoothies? Learn more from 3Natives.
Fruits in Season
Fruits add texture and sweetness to any smoothie! If you’re missing the warmer summer days, flash forward with a mix of fruits like pineapples, mangos, or blueberries.
Let’s learn about which fruits are in season, and what makes them such a great addition to your winter smoothies.
Oranges
Packed with Vitamin C, oranges are harvested right before the cold winter temperatures set in. Not only do these bright orange fruits add color to your smoothie, but they help to boost your immune system.
Strawberries
These red berries are sweet, with loads of antioxidants to reduce the risk of developing heart disease and certain cancers.
Bananas
In South Florida, bananas are in season year-round. Bananas not only add natural sweetness to any smoothie, but they are also rich in vitamin B6.
During the cold and flu season, it’s important to have a strong immune system to avoid getting sick. Vitamin B6 helps create white blood cells, which fight off infections and diseases.
Vegetables in Season
Smoothies are a great way to sneak vegetables into your diet! Not only will they add flavor, but they are filled with vitamins and minerals essential to your body.
Kale
One cup of raw kale contains high amounts of Vitamins A, K, C, & B6 along with Manganese, calcium, copper, potassium, and magnesium. During the winter, kale is in its prime season. This dark-leafed plant adds a touch of color, making for a delicious green smoothie.
Carrots
These bright orange vegetables are great for controlling your blood sugar and strengthening your bones.
Peanuts
Harvested in the late fall, peanuts add an extra layer of texture to your daily smoothie. With one scoop of peanut butter, you’re adding valuable protein, magnesium, and a large variety of essential vitamins and minerals to your diet.
Tips for Making Warm Smoothies
Who says smoothies need to be cold? In the winter weather, a warming smoothie hits the spot.
Here are some tips on how to make your favorite recipes warmer!
- Opt to use warmed ingredients instead of using cold water or milk. This will instantly make it more comforting in the wintertime.
- Use warming spices in your recipe, such as ginger or cinnamon.
- Instead of freezing your ingredients, try adding them in cold or room temperature.
- Try roasting your vegetables before blending them. This will add new texture and flavor to your winter smoothie recipes.
Find Your Winter Smoothie at 3Natives
At 3Natives, we understand the importance of having healthy and fresh options year-round.
For those looking for an island getaway during the cold weather, try the Koda’s Kolada smoothie. Made with bananas, pineapple, and coconut water, Koda’s Kolada is perfect for solving the winter blues.
Wanting an extra kick of power? Loaded with ripe bananas, strawberries, creamy peanut butter, chocolate protein, and almond milk, the Chuck Norris smoothie packs quite the punch!
Discover the rest of 3Natives healthy and delicious food by viewing our menu or visiting your local 3Natives.