Introduction
The concept of paleo smoothies emerged as health-conscious individuals sought to combine the principles of the paleolithic diet with modern convenience. This Primal Power Smoothie pays homage to our ancestors' natural, unprocessed diet while catering to today's fast-paced lifestyle. The paleo diet, inspired by the eating habits of our hunter-gatherer forebears, emphasizes whole foods and excludes grains, dairy, and processed ingredients. This smoothie embodies that philosophy, featuring a nutrient-dense blend of fruits, vegetables, and paleo-friendly fats. It's a testament to how ancient wisdom can be adapted to nourish and energize us in the 21st century, proving that eating like our distant ancestors can be both delicious and convenient.
Ingredients
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 small ripe banana, peeled and frozen
• 1 cup fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 scoop (about 30g) unsweetened paleo-friendly vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon
• 1/4 avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 teaspoon raw honey (optional, for added sweetness)
Step 1:
Add almond milk, frozen mixed berries, frozen banana, baby spinach, almond butter, chia seeds, protein powder, cinnamon, avocado, ice cubes, and honey (if using) to a high-powered blender.
Step 2:
Blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds, or until smooth and creamy. Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender if necessary.
Step 3:
Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired. Blend for an additional 15-30 seconds if adjustments are made.
Step 4:
Pour the smoothie into a large glass or mason jar.
Q: Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
A: While best consumed immediately, you can prepare it the night before and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake well before drinking.
Q: Is this smoothie Whole30 compliant?
A: To make it Whole30 compliant, omit the honey and ensure your protein powder is Whole30 approved or omit it entirely.
Q: Can I use a regular blender instead of a high-powered one?
A: Yes, but you may need to blend for a longer time and possibly add more liquid to achieve a smooth consistency.
• For a thicker smoothie, use less almond milk or add more ice.
• Freeze the banana ahead of time for a creamier texture.
• You can substitute almond milk with coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
• If you don't have mixed berries, you can use a single type of berry like strawberries or blueberries.
• Make sure to use a paleo-friendly protein powder without added sugars or artificial ingredients.
• For a nut-free version, replace almond milk with coconut milk and omit the almond butter.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
• Choose organic ingredients when possible for maximum nutritional benefit.
Serve immediately in a chilled glass. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of chia seeds or a few fresh berries.
Best consumed immediately. If necessary, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir well before drinking.
Freeze the banana and prepare other ingredients the night before for quick assembly in the morning.
- Use frozen banana for a creamier texture and to eliminate the need for additional ice.
- Add greens like spinach first, near the blades, for smoother blending.
- If the smoothie is too thick, add more almond milk gradually until desired consistency is reached.
For a tropical twist, replace mixed berries with frozen mango and pineapple. For a chocolate version, add 1 tablespoon of raw cacao powder.
Pair with a handful of raw nuts or a hard-boiled egg for added protein and healthy fats.
Best in summer when berries are in season, but can be enjoyed year-round using frozen fruits.
Contains tree nuts (almonds). Free from gluten, dairy, soy, and eggs. Check protein powder for specific allergens.