Photo by: Courtney Boyd Myers
Let’s face it – smoothies are kind of boring. And most times – they can only be so filling. Slurping up your fruity concoction sometimes just isn’t satisfying enough.
Don’t you think it’s a time for a little upgrade? Smoothie bowls are the way to go!
Smoothie bowls are just as easy to create, but can be so much more satiating. Plus, you can throw in some extra fruits, green veggies, nuts and more on top for that extra crunchy “oooh aaah” sensation.
Today, we have two green-powered smoothie bowl recipes to help keep you full, while also allowing you to indulge!
The Easy Essential
It can be a little hard to get in your daily fruits + veggies, but this recipe will help you get there!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1-2 servings of Pure Planet’s Best of Greens (or another green blend)
- 1 banana (1 handful of frozen bananas could work too, use any extras for toppings)
- 1/2 cup – 1 1/2 cup of berries for smoothie mix and toppings (blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, whatever works for you)
- 1 handful of chopped kale (remove the large stems)
- 1 handful of spinach
- Flaxseeds or granola (for some fiber)
- Almonds, Coconut shreds, hemp seeds or cacao nibs (for topping)
- Kiwis for topping (for taste)
- 1 – 1/2 cup of almond or coconut milk (you can adjust for your own consistency –> more milk means a more liquidy finish)
Instructions
- Throw Pure Planet Best of Greens, the banana, half of of your berries, kale, spinach and your milk into a blender. Blend and adjust to your own desired consistency. Add more milk to thin things out if you need.
- Pour out your smoothie into a bowl.
- Top with desired toppings.
- Instagram it and tag us! (Not necessary, but come on, why not?)
The Dessert That’s Not Actually Dessert
What’s the only thing that is better than dessert? A dessert that is actually good for you! If you’re not a green foodie, then this chocolatey-smooth recipe is key to sneak in some vital nutrition.
What You’ll Need:
- 1-2 servings of Pure Planet Chocomint Spirulina
- 1/3 – 1 cup of plant-based milk (depending on your desired consistency)
- 1/3 – 1 whole banana (or one handful of bananas)
- 1 tablespoon of almond butter or hazlenut spread
- One handful of chia seeds, cacao nibs, and shredded coconut for topping
- A small handful of spinach (optional)
- Extra cacao powder (optional)
Instructions:
- Throw the Pure Planet product, banana, milk and almond butter/hazulnet spread into a blender. Mix in optional extras.
- Blend until you’re happy with the consistency.
- Pour out your treat in a bowl.
- Top with chia seeds, cacao nibs and shredded coconuts
Snack on!
4 Green Smoothie Recipes That Actually Taste Good: Matcha, Chocolate + More
March 22, 2019
We all know eating veggies promotes good health benefits, but we also know how hard it can be get your daily servings. Maybe you don’t have time to do all the prep work that it takes to eat raw, organic greens every day (let’s be real, who does!?). Or, perhaps you just don’t like the taste of it.
Well, we’re happy if you fall into either on of those camps, because that’s why we’re here. Not only do powdered green blends offer a longer shelf-life, but they are easy to spruce up the flavor for your taste buds.
We know it might be hard to believe so, we took our Best of Greens, with loads of veggies from the garden and sea, like chlorella and kale, and slipped it into a few tasty recipes. We added a few of our superfood products and a bunch of other tasty foods to fulfill even the pickiest of palettes.
Whether you’re a total veg-head or not, these four green smoothie recipes are sure to please.
Okay, full steam ahead!
Avocado, Spirulina, Matcha, Oh my!
Have a hankering for multiple trending plants? Why not try them all at once? This smoothie packs a healthy punch in the best way possible. Soak in the potassium and vitamins, and enjoy the protein and antioxidants from avocado, spirulina, matcha and more.
A FoodCentric Life really hit it out of the park with this recipe. We think our spirulina mix would go perfectly with the vanilla-accented smoothie. If you’re feeling super zesty, mix in our Chocomint Spirulina blend.
Green Lemonade
By far one of the easiest drinks you will ever create, this hydrating beverage might become your daily go-to. Why lemon? The fruit complements veggies pretty well. That’s why our Best of Greens is available in lemon flavor. Plus, this drink is just as alkalizing as it is refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp Best of Greens (original flavor)
- Around 8 oz. water (to taste)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Maple, honey or agave syrup (to taste)
- Mint leaves (optional)
*You may also substitute the above for simply Best of Greens (any flavor) and fresh, home-made lemonade. We suggest keeping it organic.
Directions:
Stir ingredients and serve with ice. You can also blend until smooth.
Chocolate, Peanut Butter Smoothie
Sounds great, right? But you’re thinking…where’s the veggies? Well, the dedicated mommy over at Gimme Some Oven perfected a smoothie so tasty that you’ll forget vegetables were ever in it. (Yes, we promise they’re one of the main ingredients). This is a top favorite among all green smoothie recipes.
Pure Planet Substitutions
Got our goods in your pantry? You’re good to go. Here’s what we would sub in from this recipe:
- 1-2 tsp Best of Greens (unflavored) instead of spinach
- 2-3 tbsp Rice Bran Solubles instead of peanut butter (read more about this product here)
- 1-2 tsp Choco-Mint Spirulina instead of mint leaves and spinach
Berry Good Smoothie
Okay, don’t roll your eyes at us. This smoothie happens to actually be berry good for your health and taste buds. Minimalist Baker incorporates bananas, frozen berries, flax seed (great fiber source), greens and more.
Pure Planet Substitutions
Here’s what we’d be sub in, using our products:
- 1-2 tsp Best of Greens tsps instead of spinach (of course)
- 1 tbsp Rice Bran Solubles instead of peanut butter
- 1.5 tsp Organic Amla Plus instead of frozen berries*
*Whaat? You’ve never heard of the amla berry? Also known as the Indian gooseberry, this fruit packs more vitamin C than a class of orange juice and better absorption when compared to synthetic vitamins.
Keep in Touch
Let us know how your recipes go by tagging us on Instagram.
Stock up on pure + premium blends on PurePlanet.com
We’re pretty obsessed with spirulina. But because of its nature (you know, being from the ocean and all), we can understand why you wouldn’t be as pumped.
What’s more, recipes for these supplements don’t exactly seem self-explanatory. How exactly can algae be incorporated in your kitchen? Well, there are quite a few ways. In fact, we’ll link you a few recipes below. You might already have the essentials needed in your cabinet (that is–if you already have our blends too).
Why Spirulina?
So, why should you implement spirulina into your diet? We’re glad your asked. Much like red marine algae, this sea plant boasts several benefits. Here are just a few, courtesy of Healthline:
- Encourages detox of heavy metals
- Helps boost energy
- Can support healthy immune system and bodily reaction to inflammation
- Can support weight loss
Why Our Spirulina?
There are a ton of brands out there. So why should you choose ours? Well, as we’re talking about a plant from the sea, you need to ensure the cleanliness of the product. You should also be wary of the sourcing methods. Luckily, we’ve been pure + true since ’92 (since the day we started, baby). With us, you won’t even have to think twice.
What’s more, we have a diverse variety of nature’s sea-based multi-vitamin. Some people like powders–we have two. Some like capsules–so we have that too. Other places might only offer one, but we offer three different varieties:
- Capsules (vegetarian capsules, of course)
- Powder
- Choco-mint powder, for those who want an extra “yum” factor
Plus, each comes in a variety of sizes. So, whether you’re a tried + true supplement-head needing a hardy amount for daily use or just a casual looky-loo (no judgements here), we have you covered.
Okay, off our soap-box we go. Enough talk, let’s get to the recipes.
4 Easy Recipes
Choco-mint Smoothie
Decadent smoothies are perfect breakfast go-to’s or afternoon pick-me-ups. When you want a sweet treat, try this recipe. We’ve adapted a tasty recipe created by Natural View Market.
What You’ll Need
Option 1
- Pure Planet Spirulina (Choco-mint powder mix) – 2-3 tsp, according to taste
- Coconut or almond milk – 1 cup
- Banana (cut into pieces) – Add desired amounts of cut pieces
- Cacao nibs – amount desired for garnish or extra taste
Option 2
- Pure Planet Spirulina (standard) or other mix – 2-3 tsp, according to taste
- Raw Cacao nibs or powder – 2 tbsp
- Peppermint extract or leaves – 1-2 tsp or up to 12 leaves
- Banana (cut into pieces) – Add desired amounts
- Chocolate protein powder if desired – 1 scoop
Instructions
- Simply throw ingredients in a blender and blend.
Lemonade Refresher
When life gives you lemons… mix them with sea algae? That’s not how the saying goes, but we have a feeling you’re going to love this anyway. It’s a drink that will taste just as good as it looks.
Get the details from the Glowing Fridge and check out the stunning photos.
Vegan Ice Cream
Oh yes, we all scream for ice cream. We specialize in superfood blends, not ice cream-creation, so we’ll let the experts take care of this one. We think our Choco-mint mix would be perfect for these two recipes:
- Sari Foods – Mint, Chocolate chip and spirulina ice cream
- Nuts.com – Gluten-free, vegan ice cream
“Mermaid” Breakfast bowl
Yes, this blue-green algae can be perfect for breakfast bowls. In fact, it has been dubbed as a “mermaid bowl” due to the pretty colors of the result. But just be mindful, we’re not all Instagram-baddies with aesthetic know-how. If it doesn’t look as appetizing as the carefully-crafted squares on social media, don’t worry.
This recipe has been adapted from Cooking Light.
What You’ll Need
- Pure Planet Spirulina or other mix – 1 tsp
- Coconut or almond milk – 1/4 cup
- Almond yogurt – 1/4 cup
- Small apple (cored and peeled) – Cut in half or a handful of berries
- Optional:
Instructions
- Set aside about half of the yogurt (about 3 tbsp).
- Blend remaining yogurt with others ingredients until smooth.
- Pour into a bowl and stir in yogurt that was set aside.
Connect with Us
Have you tried any of these recipes? Tag us on Instagram.
Like what you see? Check out more of our selections.
Updated October 2020
We are OBSESSED with sea vegetables like algae because they are so underrated. The blue-green variety (also known as spirulina) is one our faves, because it’s basically one of Mother Nature’s least-talked about multi-vitamins. It baffles us that these marine plants don’t get as much love as they deserve.
They are available in different varieties, mostly defined by color – including yellow, brown, green, blue-green, yellow green and one of our all-time favorites, red.
Funnily enough, this color strain is probably the most under-appreciated and least known of all… but not for long. We think it will be on the up and up very soon. Now’s your chance to get ahead of the curve.
Why? Well, because it can make a great addition to any wellness regimen, for those who are serious about their health and even for casual vitamin-users.
Here are 4 reasons why you should be interested in this marine plant.
It boasts amazing antioxidant benefits.
Like other algae strains, this plant contains antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help the body manage free radical damage to cells. This simple act helps encourage overall body health.
One field review published in Plant Signaling & Behavior suggests that sea algae antioxidants could be even better than those from land-based greens:
Microalgae represent an almost untapped resource of natural antioxidants, due to their enormous biodiversity, much more diverse than higher plants. However, not all groups of microalgae can be used as natural sources of antioxidants, due to their widely varied contents of target products, growth rate or yields, ease of cultivation, and/or other factors.
Shalaby, Emad A. “Algae as Promising Organisms for Environment and Health.” Plant Signaling & Behavior 6.9 (2011): 1338–1350. PMC.
These antioxidants can also help support eye and skin health with minerals such as:
- Folate
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Iron
- Selenium
It can help support the body’s response to inflammation.
Algae naturally contains not only anti-inflammatory antioxidants, but also minerals and phytonutrients. A study published in Marine Drugs explored this effect in depth.
The researchers explain that specifically high chlorophyll and omemga-3 fatty acid content support the body’s natural process of relieving pain and inflammation. This works by helping the body manage oxidative stress.
Managing this stress also helps prevent chronic disease!
Red marine algae contains a special kind of polysaccharide, which may help support immune health.
Trust us, it’s really special. All algae are rich in polysaccharides, but only the red strain contains carrageenan. This phytochemical helps support the immune system against viruses and infections.
Gigartina, a red algae species, has actually been associated with possibly treating candida and other infections. One study published in Mycopathologia suggests that extracts may be able to effectively inhibit fungal growth. More research is needed to confirm this correlation.
The same theory has been applied to the treatment of human papillomavirus (HPV). More study is needed to help help warrant these claims though.
Important Note
Some of you may have heard of carrageenan before in a different light. We like to keep things pure + true, so here’s a little background:
This chemical is sometimes extracted from red algae and injected into store-bought milk products. This is because it can act as a thickening agent, adding much-needed consistency to these types of products.
Carrageenan is good right? So, what’s the issue?
Well, it may be good coming from a whole food seaweed source, but simply using the extract as an additive is problematic.
Why?
Alone, it holds no nutritional value – it isn’t even digestible. Due to this, the additive may damage your gut. Some nutritionists suggest steering clear of it.
But you don’t have to worry about it in seaweed, because it is naturally occurring. No studies have linked the whole food source with the same issues.
Okay, back to some light-hearted goodness! On to our last favorite thing about Red Marine Algae…
You can easily add it to your diet.
What’s the fourth reason for you two give red algae a try? What about it’s ease of use?
Lots of people get a little cautious about how they are going to consume seaweed. So let’s just answer the question you might be thinking of:
No, you do not eat it directly out the ocean! Those sources are potentially dangerous, carrying with them bacteria and disease. Don’t touch them.
Lucky for you, seaweed is growing in popularity. They are available in snack chip form and can even be integrated into salad garnishes.
See It in Action
Red algae is a little harder to find. But don’t worry, we have you covered. Want to give it a try? Check out our Red Marine Algae Plus (with spirulina), which can help support the immune system.
Shop now PurePlanet.com.
More Sources and Info
https://www.water-for-health.co.uk/our-blog/2017/03/can-red-marine-algae-really-help-boost-immune-system/
https://www.livestrong.com/article/183640-red-marine-algae-health-benefits/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22054963
With Labor Day just around the corner, we are ever closer to September and the end of summer (cue: cries of despair).
It’s okay. In our opinion, there’s always an excuse to kick back and channel our summertime vibes. But we know that some fun can only be had while the sun shines hot.
So, here’s one last taste of summer before it is gone for good. Enjoy one of these 4 refreshing vegan smoothies that can help you soak up every last bit!
Mint Chip Treat
For the mint-chocolate fans out there, this Kale and Caramel has you covered.
With frozen banana chunks, spirulina, mint leaves, cacao nibs and dark chocolate shavings, this is sure to please your sweet tooth.
Pure Planet Alternatives
This recipe calls for dairy milk, but we think you’ll be just fine using almond (or hemp, oat, cashew, etc.) milk. And we think our Choco-Mint Spirulina blend will mix smoothly for a mouth-watering result.
Coconut Water Refresher
What’s better than some coconut water on a hot summer’s day? How about a twist of pineapple?
This Yummly recipe only needs 5 ingredients and takes about 5 minutes to create. Got peppermint leaves, pineapple, ginger, coconut water and ice on hand? Great! Then slip into a sleepy afternoon with this relaxing and hydrating vegan smoothie blend.
Pure Planet Alternatives
Our Organic Coconut Water – Rehydrate mix contains hibiscus and ginger, plus rooibos extract and electrolytes. Subbing this in for the plain coconut water and ginger scoop will help you feel even more lifted. Bon vovage on your trip to afternoon bliss!
Chocolate Cherry Vegan Smoothie
When you have a hankering for cherry-cola, this Texanerin Baking recipe could do the trick! With tart cherry. cocoa powder, banana and vanilla extract, this is the perfect treat after a long week.
Pure Planet Alternatives
Our Organic Tart Cherry extract could be an easy swap for the tart cherries, especially because it’s much easier to get your hands on during off-season. This recipe also calls for sweetener, to offset the tartness of the cherries. For people sensitive to stevia, you may want to avoid that part and swap for a more natural alternative, like honey from your local farmer’s market.
Strawberry Beet Smoothie
Us health-nuts know beets are super good for you, especially for cardiovascular and liver health. Why not add them to a mouth-watering summer smoothie?
This recipe calls for beets, berries, ginger and cinnamon, so you know you’re getting nutritious antioxidants and vitamins. Kick back and jam to the groove of the beet!
Pure Planet Alternatives
Our Organic Power Beets – Berry Blast complements the recipe well. Power Beets works great as a pre-workout drink, so adding it to this delicious treat could help avoid dessert-grogginess after you’ve finished.
Let’s Talk
Have you tried out any of these recipes? Do you have any of your own? Let us know in the comments below.
