A couple of weeks ago, I went to a work-sponsored health screening.
I've been blessed with relatively good health, so I'm accustomed to health appointments ending with a "Good job! Keep up the good work." I really love all the praise.
Therefore, I was not at all pleased when, at the health screening, my cholesterol and triglycerides tested as less than ideal. I'm not using the phrase "less than ideal" as a euphemism for "really, really bad." In this case,"less than ideal" really was just that, slightly over the ideal range. Even though there is little reason for concern, I felt upset.
I want to avoid becoming obsessive about my health (and since I'm a recovering perfectionist, that would be easy to do), but I think the screening was a good reminder about some of the general wellness principles I'm committed to but have been lax about in recent months.
One way I'm combating my lapse is by focusing on getting my meal portions back in line and stocking my home and office with healthy snacks. This smoothie is a new addition to my arsenal. It's full of things I love, so the way I make it involves a lot of spoon licking. It's also creamy, filling and fresh-tasting, which is perfect for an afternoon snack.
On a practical note - since putting the blender back together after washing it is a minor production for me, I went ahead and made some extra batches to stash in the fridge while the blender was already dirtied up. Reserved portions need a little stir before serving.
Peanut Butter and Fruit Smoothie
(inspired by Cooking Light)
1 ripe banana, sliced
1/2 cup frozen fruit (I used a berry medley.)
1/2 cup 1% milk
1/2 cup vanilla fat-free Greek yogurt
1/2 teaspoon ground flaxseed meal
1 tablespoon creamy, natural peanut butter
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
Put all of the ingredients into the blender, and run the blender until fully combined.
Serves 1
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We don't make smoothies as often as we might because it's a pain (perceived anyway) to wash the blender. Have you ever thought about getting an immersion blender? Many people swear by them so I think about getting one then and again.
ReplyDeleteI made this for breakfast this morning and it was a BIG hit at our house. Thanks for sharing ;)
ReplyDeleteLive and Learn - I would actually really like an immersion blender. It's on my long "kitchen needs" list. As a side note, I crossed one thing off that list this weekend - a zester. I can't decide what the inaugural use should be.
ReplyDeleteErin - I can't say it enough - I love, love to think about people eating/drinking yummy things. :-)