Blue Monkey Smoothie

Introduction

History

The concept of blending fruits with dairy or non-dairy milk and yogurt has been around for decades, but the Blue Monkey Smoothie, with its unique combination of ingredients, emerged as a popular choice in the early 21st century. The inclusion of a packet of Carnation® Instant Breakfast adds a nutritional boost, making it a more satisfying option than a traditional fruit smoothie. This recipe reflects the growing trend towards healthier, easy-to-prepare meals and snacks that don't compromise on taste.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the smoothest texture, add the liquid ingredients to the blender first, followed by the frozen items. This helps the blades move more freely. If your blender struggles with frozen fruit, let the blueberries and banana sit out for a few minutes to thaw slightly before blending. Additionally, using a high-powered blender can make a significant difference in achieving that perfectly smooth consistency.

Serving Suggestions

The Blue Monkey Smoothie can be enjoyed on its own as a quick breakfast or snack. For a more filling meal, pair it with a slice of whole-grain toast topped with almond butter or a small bowl of oatmeal. It's also a great post-workout drink to help replenish energy and aid in muscle recovery.

Cooking Techniques

Blending is the primary technique used in this recipe. For best results, start at a low speed and gradually increase to high to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Carnation® Instant Breakfast, you can substitute it with another brand of meal replacement powder or protein powder. Fresh blueberries can be used instead of frozen, though you may want to add ice to achieve the desired frosty texture. A ripe avocado can replace the banana for a lower sugar option that still provides creaminess.

Make Ahead Tips

For an even quicker preparation, pre-measure the blueberries and banana and store them in the freezer in individual servings. You can also mix the dry ingredients (instant breakfast powder, if using protein powder instead) in small containers or bags. In the morning, simply add the pre-prepared ingredients to the blender with the milk and yogurt.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the smoothie in a tall glass garnished with a few whole blueberries and a slice of banana on the rim for a visually appealing presentation. A colorful straw can add a fun touch, especially if serving to kids.

Pairing Recommendations

The Blue Monkey Smoothie pairs well with light, healthy foods such as granola bars, fruit salads, or whole-grain muffins. For a more indulgent pairing, try it with a slice of banana bread or blueberry pancakes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Smoothies are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it, keep the smoothie in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir well before drinking, as separation may occur. Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture and taste upon thawing.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of the Blue Monkey Smoothie contains approximately 300 to 400 calories, making it a substantial snack or a light meal. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

A serving of the Blue Monkey Smoothie contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the natural sugars in the banana and blueberries, as well as the added sugars in the Carnation® Instant Breakfast and flavored yogurt. Choosing a no-sugar-added yogurt and a reduced-sugar instant breakfast packet can lower the carbohydrate content for those monitoring their intake.

Fats

This smoothie is relatively low in fat, with about 2 to 5 grams per serving, depending on the type of milk and yogurt used. Opting for skim milk and non-fat yogurt can minimize fat content, while using whole milk or full-fat yogurt will increase it. The smoothie contains minimal saturated fats and no trans fats.

Proteins

Each serving of the Blue Monkey Smoothie provides approximately 10 to 15 grams of protein, thanks to the milk, yogurt, and the protein content of the Carnation® Instant Breakfast. This makes it a good option for muscle repair after a workout or keeping you feeling full longer.

Vitamins and minerals

The smoothie is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and potassium, primarily from the milk and yogurt. The blueberries add antioxidants, including vitamin C and vitamin K. The banana boosts the potassium content further and provides vitamin B6. The Carnation® Instant Breakfast packet enriches the smoothie with additional vitamins and minerals, including iron, vitamin A, and vitamin E.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (from the milk and yogurt) and potentially soy, depending on the brand of Carnation® Instant Breakfast used. It's always important to check the labels for allergen information if you have specific sensitivities.

Summary

Overall, the Blue Monkey Smoothie is a balanced blend of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, enriched with vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious option that can be easily adjusted to meet different dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

The Blue Monkey Smoothie is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious option for anyone looking for a quick and healthy meal or snack. With its blend of fruits, dairy, and optional protein boost, it offers a balanced mix of essential nutrients. Easy to customize and prepare, it's a wonderful addition to any diet.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. The Blue Monkey Smoothie. A vibrant and refreshing drink that seemed like the perfect treat for a hot summer day. I had come across the recipe in a magazine while waiting at the doctor's office. The bright blue color caught my eye, and I was instantly intrigued.

As soon as I got home, I dug through my pantry and refrigerator to gather the ingredients. I had most of them on hand already, except for the blue spirulina powder. I had never heard of this ingredient before, but I was determined to find it. After a quick search online, I discovered that a health food store across town carried it. So, I hopped in my car and made my way there.

Once I had all the ingredients in hand, I wasted no time in whipping up a batch of the Blue Monkey Smoothie. The recipe was simple and straightforward, blending together frozen bananas, blue spirulina powder, coconut milk, and a splash of vanilla extract. I poured the mixture into a tall glass and took a sip.

The flavor was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The sweet and creamy banana paired perfectly with the subtle earthiness of the spirulina. The blue color added a fun and playful element to the drink. I was instantly hooked.

I decided to share the recipe with my friends and family. They were all amazed by the unique flavor and stunning appearance of the Blue Monkey Smoothie. Some even asked for the recipe so they could make it themselves. I was thrilled to have stumbled upon such a delicious and innovative drink.

Over the years, I continued to make the Blue Monkey Smoothie regularly. It became a staple in my summer recipe collection, enjoyed by all who tried it. I even started experimenting with different variations, adding in fresh berries or a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

One day, while visiting my friend Margaret, I brought along a batch of Blue Monkey Smoothies to share. Margaret was a talented cook and baker, always coming up with new and exciting recipes. She took one sip of the smoothie and her eyes lit up.

"This is incredible!" she exclaimed. "Have you ever thought about entering a recipe contest?"

I had never considered entering a contest before, but Margaret's suggestion sparked a new idea in my mind. I decided to submit the Blue Monkey Smoothie to a local cooking competition. The judges were impressed by the creativity and flavor of the drink, awarding me first place.

From that moment on, the Blue Monkey Smoothie became my signature recipe. I shared it at potlucks, parties, and gatherings, always receiving rave reviews. People would often ask me how I came up with such a unique and delicious drink, and I would share the story of how I discovered the recipe in a magazine one day.

As time went on, I began to experiment with other recipes using blue spirulina powder. I created blueberry muffins, coconut popsicles, and even a blue velvet cake. The vibrant blue color became a trademark of my cooking, bringing joy and excitement to those who tasted my creations.

I never would have imagined that a simple recipe found in a magazine would have such a significant impact on my life. The Blue Monkey Smoothie not only brought me joy and satisfaction but also connected me with others who shared a love for cooking and creativity. It remains a beloved recipe in my collection, a reminder of the power of trying new things and embracing the unexpected.

Categories

| Banana Recipes | Berry Recipes | Blueberry Recipes | Carnation Recipes | Fat-free Recipes | Yogurt Recipes |

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