This is a perfect post-workout treat. I have a long history of not liking smoothies. I have tried, I really have. Being lactose-intolerant, I have struggled to find a recipe that doesn’t require me to pop a Lactaid first thing in the morning.

When we were in Chicago earlier this summer, Manatee and I shared a smoothie at the the Green City Market.  They used organic apple cider and blueberries. I was hooked. When I got home, I tried to recreate it but it just never seemed to work. Not to mention, I was using frozen blueberries so my teeth would be chattering by the time I finished up and without a straw, the blueberries gave me ghoul lips. So I was cold AND ugly. Not a great way to start the day.

After my field trip to the cranberry marsh, I had a bag of cranberries in my pantry. I have to admit, when the idea of incorporating cranberries came to me, it was more about regulating the temperature. I couldn’t bear putting two cold fruits in one drink. Little did I know how much it would affect the flavor.

Sweet blueberries paired with tart cranberries = a refreshing way to start the day. Throw in some protein powder and you should be set for the morning.

Cran-Blueberry Smoothie

1 cup frozen blueberries
1/2 cup fresh cranberries
1 cup apple cider
1 tablespoon protein powder
1 tablespoon of flaxseeds optional

 

  1. Put the cranberries and the blueberries into the blender.


  2. Blend the berries together until smooth.

  3. Add protein powder (and flax seeds, is using). Blend some more.
  4. Enjoy!

Recipe Review: This is my new go-to breakfast! I love how the fruits balance each other out. Here are few tips:

  • If you don’t want it super cold, take the blueberries out of the freezer before you work out. When you are finished, they should have thawed slightly.
  • Store your cranberries in the pantry. They don’t need to be refrigerated and I think they taste more fresh when they are room temperature.
  • Flaxseeds are totally optional. Sometimes I add them and sometimes I don’t. They gave you more nutrients and fiber. I throw them in whole but if you have flaxseed meal, you could use that too.
  • Use a straw. I buy milkshake straws and they work out pretty well.

 

 

Print Friendly, PDF & Email