Gathering up all the necessary blender ingredients when a smoothie craving strikes can eat into any free time you may have. Not so when you cleverly put nearly everything on ice beforehand. This one provides a perfect balance of energizing carbs, satiating protein, and healthy fats.
Hidden hacks
These ready-to-go subzero smoothie packs are your answer to a frosty drink in a matter of moments, be it after a spirited workout or when you’re in need of a quick breakfast to deal with a morning time crunch.
Tip
Try this Smoothie Pack kitchen hack with any of your other favourite ingredient combos. Simply bundle up items like fruits, vegetables, herbs, and seeds and put them on ice. Then blend with liquid of choice and last-minute add-ins such as yogurt, protein powder, nut butter, and spices.
Carrot Orange Smoothie Packs
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2 in (1.25 cm) chunks
- 1 large orange bell pepper, seeds removed and quartered
- 2 oranges, peeled and quartered
- 2 large bananas, peeled and chopped into 1 in (2.5 cm) chunks
- 1 in (2.5 cm) piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
- 8 Tbsp (120 mL) hemp hearts
- 4 cups (1 L) milk or unsweetened nondairy milk, divided
- 2 cups (500 mL) plain Greek-style yogurt, divided
Nutrition
Per serving:
- calories395
- protein27g
- fat12g
- saturated fat3g
- trans fat0g
- carbohydrates49g
- sugars33g
- fibre7g
- sodium136mg
Directions
01
Divide carrots, bell pepper, oranges, bananas, ginger, and hemp hearts among 4 airtight freezer containers; seal shut; and place in freezer to freeze contents.
02
To make a smoothie, place 1 cup (250 mL) milk, 1/2 cup (125 mL) yogurt, and contents of 1 Smoothie Pack and blend until smooth. If needed, add more liquid to help with blending.
Matthew Kadey, MSc, RD
Matthew Kadey is a dietitian, nutrition writer, and recipe developer. He is also the author of Rocket Fuel (VeloPress, 2016) and Muffin Tin Chef (Ulysses Press, 2012).
READ THIS NEXT
SEE MORE »
Strawberry Carpaccio
This simple dessert celebrates the glory that is the summer strawberry. Don’t feel you have to stick to strawberries here; swapping them for ripe peaches would also make for a stunning ending to any meal. What to gild the lily with? Add a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. Flower power Orange blossom water (also known as orange flower water) is produced by water distillation of the blossoms of a bitter orange tree. Just like rose water, a little goes a long way. So, take care and use just a drop or two, tasting as you go so as not to overwhelm but rather to complement the other flavours in a dish.
Greek Turkey Burger Bites
Ever thought about making burgers as an appetizer or as a potluck meal for friends and family? Try making your favourite burger into bite-sized portions. They might be small in size, but they won’t be small in flavour. These burgers also pair well with a Greek salad for a delicious mid-week lunch or dinner. Fresh is best Squeeze fresh lemon on patties while cooking to give them the fresh zing of citrus.
Italian Portobello Mushroom Burger with Artichoke Tapenade
What worldwide vacation is complete without a stop in Italy? Dad won’t miss the meat in this flavourful mushroom alternative complete with Italian spices and a zesty vegetable tapenade. Portobellos have a uniquely “meaty” texture and act as a sponge to lock in loads of flavour. This meaty plant-based burger is sure to become a favourite—even with any meat-lovers in your life. Custom-made! Don’t be afraid to customize your burger buns to fit your patties. If your bun’s too big, trim off excess and save the trimmed bits of bread, but don’t discard. Instead, cut into small cubes; drizzle with some olive oil, sea salt, and seasonings of choice; bake at 350 F (180 C) for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons for use in soups and salads throughout the week.
Asian Shrimp Burger with Bean Sprout Slaw and Fresh Mango
Next stop, Asia! This shrimp burger combines classic Asian flavours with unique toppings for rich umami flavour with the saltiness of the ocean. Whether served on a bun or over rice in a more traditional Asian-style meal, try some unique miso yogurt or wasabi mayo dressing for a fabulous flavour bomb. Keep those burgers juicy Place raw patties on a plate or tray, and cover and freeze or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to keep them together and to lock in moisture.