In summer, all you need is a chilling drink. Whether you have been out in the sun or stayed at home throughout the day. You seem to be always craving a glass of beverage that can help you experience respite from the heat by cooling down your body. Smoothies are refreshing but they need to be healthy as well.
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Slurrp connected with Dr Vilas Shirhatti, Technical Director and Nutrition Consultant, Naturell India Pvt. Ltd. (RiteBite’s MAX Protein), to bring you two recipes for smoothies that will help you stay hydrated in the scorching heat. Make a batch for yourself and your family to enjoy the summer.
Watermelon Mint Cooler
Watermelon is among the most hydrating and popular fruits consumed in summer. Speaking about the recipe for watermelon mint cooler, the nutritionist said, "It is a perfect blend of fruity and minty flavours to keep cool, fresh, and hydrated all summer long."
Ingredients
- 2 cups cubed watermelon
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup coconut water
- Ice cubes
- Honey (optional)
Method
- Start by chopping two cups of fresh watermelon into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel half of a cucumber and chop it into small chunks. Gather a handful of fresh mint leaves and squeeze the juice of one lime.
- Place the cubed watermelon, chopped cucumber, mint leaves, lime juice, and half a cup of coconut water into the blender.
- Grind the ingredients on high speed until the mixture is smooth and frothy, which should not take more than a couple of minutes. Ensure that all the ingredients are combined well.
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes and pour the blended watermelon mixture to keep the drink extra cold and refreshing.
- Garnish your drink with a few extra mint leaves on top for an added burst of minty freshness. You can also add a teaspoon of honey for some sweetness.
Protein-Packed Coconut Blueberry Smoothie
Pick any book on nutrition, and you will realise that nothing beats the potency of coconut. On the other hand, blueberries are rich in antioxidants and taste delicious. "This protein-packed coconut blueberry smoothie is an excellent post-workout recovery drink and is a great option for a nutritious breakfast that will keep you full and energized," added the nutritionist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 banana
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yoghurt (plant-based yoghurt / dairy-free optional)
- 1 scoop of unflavoured protein powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey
Method
- Peel and slice one ripe banana.
- In your blender, combine frozen blueberries, sliced bananas, coconut milk, plain Greek yoghurt, protein powder, chia seeds, and honey.
- Blend on low speed to break down the larger pieces, then gradually increase to high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the smoothie into a chilled glass to enhance your enjoyment.
- Top off your drink with chia seeds for added texture.