Quick, easy and nutrient-packed

Parenting is hard enough and keeping your kids eating well is an added challenge! One trick I find myself using is my Vitamix blender to make delicious smoothies. Smoothies are a perfect way to sneak in greens, frozen fruit, ground oats, nut milks, ice (more hydration), bananas healthy fats like nut butter and avocado.

Keeping it dairy free keeps inflammation at bay. Whenever my kids start getting runny noses or we’ve been eating too much fast, greasy, foods, I turn to my blender. They know I’m making them a special drink and I know their bodies are getting vitamins they need to kick the colds and stay healthy..

Here are three vegan smoothie recipes you can quickly whip up that your whole family will love. They are simple to make, affordable, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened, so you can feel good about serving them to your little ones.

1. Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 frozen banana
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (to taste)
• A pinch of sea salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more maple syrup.
4. Pour into a glass, garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired, and enjoy!

Why it’s great: This smoothie tastes just like a slice of pumpkin pie but without the added sugar and unhealthy fats. Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and fiber, making this a nutritious option that feels indulgent.

2. Chocolate Blueberry Spinach Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1 ripe banana (frozen for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• 1 large handful of fresh spinach (about 1 cup packed)
• 1-2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional, for added fiber)
• 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup or agave (optional, for sweetness)
• A few ice cubes (optional, if you want a thicker smoothie)

Instructions:

1. Add the almond milk, frozen banana, spinach, and frozen blueberries to your blender.
2. Add the cocoa powder or cacao powder, maple syrup, and ice cubes.
3. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a bit more almond milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more maple syrup or agave.
5. Pour into a glass and enjoy your nutritious, chocolatey treat!

This smoothie is packed with antioxidants from the blueberries and spinach, and a rich chocolate flavor from the cocoa powder. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a post-workout snack! It’s my kids’ favorite!

3. Mixed Berry Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1 cup mixed frozen berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
• 1/2 frozen banana
• 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal
• 1-2 tablespoons agave nectar or pure maple syrup (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more agave nectar or maple syrup if necessary.
4. Pour into a glass, and enjoy the fruity freshness!

Why it’s great: Berries are bursting with antioxidants and vitamins, making this smoothie a perfect immune-boosting treat. The flaxseed adds a dose of healthy fats and fiber, helping to keep you full and satisfied.

Tips for Busy Parents:

• Prep in advance: You can pre-measure the ingredients for each smoothie and store them in freezer bags. In the morning, just dump the contents into the blender, add your liquid, and blend.
• Get the kids involved: Let your kids choose their favorite smoothie or add their own toppings. This can make smoothie time fun and encourage them to enjoy healthy options.
• Double up: Make a double batch and store the leftovers in the fridge for the next day. Smoothies can stay fresh for up to 24 hours in an airtight container.

Hope these recipes help you and your littles stay healthy and satisfied throughout the year! Hopefully they help you start the day off right, even on the busiest mornings. Enjoy!