Back to School and on Getting your Greens

Photo courtesy of Sarah Culver Photography

Photo courtesy of Sarah Culver Photography

Summer is rapidly coming to a close and for many, that means back to school, whether for themselves or for their children or both.  I, myself, am gearing up for my dietetic internship (and am super nervous!).  The commute will involve a VERY early wake up, so to maximize my sleep time, my goal is to make my mornings as streamlined as possible.  I bet morning chaos is a pretty regular thing in most people's homes, especially as many of us re-adjust to post-summer schedules.  Whether you're frantically trying to get kids clothed, combed, fed and on the bus, or just trying to get yourself into your car in your semi-comatose state that is early mornings, this recipe will make mornings just a little bit easier and maybe even more enjoyable.  AND you'll get a healthy dose of greens before 9am! I'm always excited when I've got a whole serving of veggies in before lunch. :)  And don't be afraid to make this smoothie other times of the day - post work/school snack, after dinner treat, weekend deliciousness.

Spinach Never Tasted So Good Smoothie
makes 1 large or 2 small smoothies

1/2 cup plain yogurt (optional, but gives a great protein kick to keep you full longer and an awesome tartness)
1 packet Orange Emergen-C 
handful frozen strawberries
1 frozen banana (cut it into chunks BEFORE you freeze it)
2 big handfuls (about 2 cups) of raw spinach (I PROMISE you won't notice it a bit!)
water as necessary
Optional: 1 Tbs ground flax seed or 1 Tbs chia seeds

Toss all your ingredients into your blender.  Blend until smooth, adding water a little bit at a time as necessary to get your desired consistency.  Yum.

*Like getting your greens without ever eating a salad? Check out this smoothie recipe too!

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