Easy, Yummy, Groovy Smoothie

Good morning! Tex here to help you start your day with a protein-packed breakfast or snack you can sit and enjoy or take on the run.

On my best days, I'm at the gym every morning before I ever get ready for the day. Since I tend to do a lot of weights, I like to make sure I get plenty of protein for breakfast. However, one can only do so many eggs. And I was getting bored with my Kashi Go Lean. Besides, it's hotter'n blue blazes here in Texas, so I wanted something that would keep me cool too.

So here's what I came up with.

My base is non-fat, plain Greek yogurt. This stuff is super high in protein and so much better than regular yogurt. I typically use 3/4 cup.

Then I add 1/2 to 1 cup of blueberries. Excellent source of antioxidants, with fiber to help fill you up. Because I like the flavor, I often add a peach, unpeeled, just pitted, too.

From there, it's some ice, a splash of unsweetened vanilla almond milk (you can use regular milk), two packets of Splenda (or whatever suits your tastes - you can even use honey or agave nectar, if you prefer), and just a little bit of vanilla extract (maybe 1/8 teaspoon).

Put everything in a blender. Then, last but not least, I add my secret ingredient.

Yep, a handful of spinach. I promise you will not taste it. But what an easy way to get some extra vitamins and iron.

You can see everything layered in the blender.

Now, blend until smooth.

That's it.

Now you're ready to enjoy without any guilt whatsoever. (Yes, those sinking blueberries were my lame attempt at a garnish. If only I'd had some mint leaves. And can you tell from the side I took a sip before taking this pic? :-)

Of course, you can use whatever fruit you like. Bananas, oranges, strawberries.... The sky's the limit.

Do you like to sneak veggies into any of your recipes? If so, what's your favorite idea?