This Cherry Vanilla Smoothie with Chia tastes more like a cherry milkshake than a healthy (280 calories per serving and packed with calcium, protein and vitamin C and a great source of fiber, riboflavin, iodine, and phosphorus) way to fuel your morning.
Just a few ingredients tossed into a blender create a healthy, protein-packed way to start your day!
Chia seeds are one of the "superfoods" being coined as one of the healthiest foods on our planet! They are packed with antioxidants, protein, and fiber; high in omega-3 fatty acids (I was shocked to learn that they pack more omega-3's than salmon); and they deliver massive amounts of nutrients with very few calories. I love throwing them into smoothies for an added boost that doesn't distract from the flavor of the smoothie.
Did you know that cherries have natural anti-inflammatory benefits along with melatonin that helps regulate sleep?
Cherry Vanilla Smoothie with Chia
Recipe base adapted from Ellie Krieger's So Easy Cookbook
Ingredients:
2 cups pitted sweet cherries (unsweetened), frozen (or 2 cups fresh pitted dark cherries)
1 cup nonfat or low-fat vanilla yogurt (or cherry vanilla yogurt or cherry yogurt can be subbed)
1 cup nonfat milk or coconut milk
2 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1/4 cup chia (optional but packs more protein)
1 cup ice
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high speed until smooth. Enjoy!
