Powerhouse Pea Shoot Antioxidant Smoothie

This quick and easy 5 ingredient smoothie is a great way to start your day with a heaping dose of vitamins and minerals! The ingredients are packed with antioxidants which contribute to youthful complexion, improved cellular health, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. Kids also love the sweet and mild taste. Serving this to your child incorporates extra protein and calcium into their diet.

If you've visited us at the farmer's market, you may have noticed that pea shoots are one of our favorite greens to grow. These delightful, tender shoots are tender, sweet, and packed with nutrients.

There are many health benefits to incorporating pea shoots into your diet. 

- Despite their petite size, pea shoots are a nutritional powerhouse! They are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, and contain essential minerals like iron and calcium. These nutrients support healthy vision, boost the immune system, and aid in maintaining strong bones.

- Antioxidant Boost: Pea shoots are rich in antioxidants that help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

- Digestive Health: The fiber content promotes a healthy digestive system, aids in maintaining regular bowel movements, and supports overall gut health.

- Blood Sugar Regulation: Pea shoots have a low glycemic index and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Smoothie Ingredients:

• 1 cup packed pea shoots
• Juice of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup frozen cherries
• 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
• 1 cup water

Optional Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon biotin supplement powder (skin, hair, and nail health)
• 1 teaspoon hawthorne berry powder (improved heart function)
• 1 teaspoon saw palmetto powder (improved urinary tract function)

Instructions:

1.Wash the pea shoots thoroughly.

2.In a blender, combine pea shoots, orange juice, frozen cherries, strawberries, and water.

3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy. If desired, add more water.

4. For an additional nutritional boost, you can also add any optional supplements you desire.

5. Blend again briefly to incorporate the optional ingredients into the smoothie mixture.

6. Pour the smoothie into a glass, garnish with a few extra pea shoots, and enjoy!

These curly green tendrils are tender and mild, without the residual bitterness that you may taste after adding spinach or kale. Introducing the Pea Shoot Powerhouse Antioxidant Smoothie into your daily routine is a delightful way to get extra health-boosting nutrients. The combination of the refreshing orange juice, the natural tart/sweetness of cherries and strawberries, and the mild tender nature of pea shoots creates a delicious blend. Don't forget to experiment with the optional ingredients to customize the smoothie to your specific health needs.

Enjoy!
-Carly

† Always consult with a healthcare professional or a dietitian for personalized advice on diet and nutrition.