Turmeric, Pineapple, Banana, and Ginger Smoothie
This vibrant and healthy smoothie is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients and offers a delicious tropical flavor.
Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks (using frozen fruit makes the smoothie thicker and colder without ice)
- 1 ripe banana, fresh or frozen (if fresh, you might want to add a few ice cubes)
- 1/2 – 1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled (adjust to your preference for ginger intensity)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (haldi)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (essential for turmeric absorption)
- 1/2 cup liquid of choice (water, coconut water, almond milk, or orange juice work well)
- Optional additions:
- 1/2 teaspoon flax seeds (as seen scattered in the image, adds fiber and omega-3s)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (if you prefer it sweeter)
- Squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice (brightens the flavors)
- A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for extra warmth and flavor
Equipment:
- Blender
Instructions:
- Prepare the ginger: Peel the ginger root. You can roughly chop it into smaller pieces if your blender isn’t very powerful, but most blenders can handle it whole.
- Combine ingredients: Add all the ingredients (frozen pineapple, banana, peeled ginger, ground turmeric, black pepper, and your chosen liquid) into your blender. If using flax seeds, add them now.
- Blend until smooth: Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more liquid, 1 tablespoon at a time, and blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness if desired with honey or maple syrup. If you want more ginger kick, add a tiny bit more.
- Serve immediately: Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy immediately for the best taste and nutritional benefits.
Tips and Variations:
- For a colder smoothie: Use all frozen fruit or add 3-4 ice cubes to the blender.
- Boost protein: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder (vanilla or unflavored work well).
- Add greens: A handful of spinach or kale can be blended in for extra nutrients without significantly altering the taste.
- Make ahead: While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the smoothie and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before drinking.
- Health benefits: Turmeric is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger aids digestion and can help with nausea. Pineapple is rich in Vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties. Bananas provide potassium and natural sweetness.
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