.

ENLIGHTEN SMOOTHIE BOWL

ENLIGHTEN SMOOTHIE BOWL

The smoothie bowl of all smoothie bowls...topped with lots of color, texture and flavors!

Not too much to say about this one, except that it's delicious! The smoothie bowl is a great way to add fresh fruits and superfoods to your diet. Adding a hearty smoothie bowl to your daily or almost daily meal routine, you will find just how much your body can transform itself with simple, clean food. I have used fruits only here and will hopefully have some that include greens in the future. Since fruits don't have much protein, I encourage you to add a scoop of vegan protein powder or a serving of natural nut butter to the mix. Adding 2 tablespoons of almond butter will give you an added 8 grams of protein. Protein powders will vary but most will give you quite a bit more than a serving of nut butter. And for those who avoid fruits because of sugars, I want to remind you that although fruit does have sugar, natural sugar, they also contain vitamins, anti-oxidants and trace elements the body needs, unlike refined sugar. It's nature's candy and should be enjoyed without reservation, unless advised otherwise by a medical professional. The sugars you should be wary of are refined sugars in packaged goods, including packaged sugars. Give up the sugary packaged foods, instead grab some fresh and/or frozen fruit, add a few superfoods, whip up an enlighten smoothie bowl and feel the difference! 

ENLIGHTEN SMOOTHIE BOWLENLIGHTEN SMOOTHIE BOWLENLIGHTEN SMOOTHIE BOWL

Start with your smoothie base. It can be whatever fruit combo you like or have on hand. I used 1 1/2 cups of a frozen berry blend and fresh bananas. I also added two tablespoons of peanut butter for added protein (you can add a dollop as a topping if you prefer). You could also add a scoop of protein powder instead (you may need to add a little extra water if you do).

ENLIGHTEN SMOOTHIE BOWL

Almonds, pepitas (pumpkin seeds), currants or raisins, raspberries, blueberries, chia seeds, hemp hearts, goji berries, kiwi, strawberries, coconut flakes, cocoa nibs, granola, nut butter and banana...these are a few ideas for toppings. Add whatever toppings you like. Go simple or all out making the perfect bowl to suit your taste!

ENLIGHTEN SMOOTHIE BOWL

ENLIGHTEN SMOOTHIE BOWL

smoothie mix
  • 1 1/2 cups berry mix or frozen fruit mix of choice
  • 1 1/2 fresh banana (use the other half sliced on top)
  • 2 tablespoons almond or natural peanut butter or 1 scoop vegan protein powder, optional 
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 3 - 4 ice cubes

some optional toppings
  • granola
  • coconut
  • cacao nibs
  • natural nut butters (almond, peanut, etc.)
  • banana
  • blueberries
  • strawberries
  • grapes
  • kiwi
  • goji berries
  • hemp hearts 
  • chia seeds
  • pomegranate seeds
  • almonds
  • pumpkin seeds

In blender, place berry mix, banana, nut butter, water and ice cubes. Blend until thick and creamy. Pour into serving dish and top with whatever toppings you like.

Serves one.

Notes:

If using frozen bananas, omit the ice cubes and add 1/4 cup of water.

Add extra water as needed once blended. If using protein powder you may find you need a little extra.

Adding nuts and seeds as part of your toppings will add extra protein.

today's enlighten smoothie bowl

And then the next day...another bowl of vibrant goodness! I shared this one on Instagram

I'd love to see your masterpieces! 
#thesimpleveganista 

Enjoy!