Orange-Carrot Smoothie

There is nothing I like more in the winter (except 75 degrees and sunshine, and perhaps living in California) than the California Navel orange. The Navel is not the best orange for juicing, however, it's perfect for smoothies and just plain eating. With the last few months being, oh, miserable--partly because of a two week long bout we had with the flu, croup, and two visits to the ER, among other things (like, the weather)--I've been turning a lot to my favorite cure all smoothie. High in vitamin C (my miracle drug), vitamin A and important antioxidant properties, this beverage brings sunshine to my soul :)

Orange-Carrot Smoothie

2 oranges, rinds and pith cut off

6 baby carrots

2 slices of jarred peaches, plus a splash of the juice (1 to 2 teaspoons)

2 to 3 tablespoons vanilla Greek-style yogurt

1 1/2 tablespoons Turbinado sugar (sugar-in-the-raw), or less to your liking

Blend everything on high (Vitamix or powerful blender works best) for about 30 seconds (longer if using a less-powerful blender.) Add about 20 to 30 ice cubes and blend until smooth.

Green Smoothie

My green smoothie. I love. I crave. 

(I even got my husband to drink them every day...he actually likes them!)

Ingredients:

Kale (1 large stalk)

4 baby carrots

1 cup grapes (red or green)

4 strawberries

1/4 green apple

1 tablespoon "sugar in the raw" (Turbinado sugar)

2 tablespoons vanilla creamer

1/4 cup vanilla non-fat yogurt

Approximately 16 - 18 ice cubes

Blend all ingredients, except ice cubes on high until very smooth. *Note: If using a Vita-Mix, use the plunger to push everything down. If using a regular blender, pulse and stop/stir occasionally to get the food to start mixing.

Once smooth, add ice cube and pulse/blend until smooth. 

**I buy my cane sugar in a big bag from Costco. It's cheaper and it lasts forever.

Sometimes, when I know my mornings will be rushed, I put everything in the blender (except the ice) and store it in the fridge over night. Then, in the morning, I blend, add the ice and I can run out the door with smoothie in hand. I'm extra happy all day :)