If you’re trying to get in the habit of having morning smoothies, the best thing you can do to help yourself is to have a well stocked smoothie pantry. Take your Smoothie Project PDF to the grocery or farmer’s market with you as a helpful shopping list to start stocking your kitchen. Here are some of my favorites and tips for storing them.
Fruits
Keep all your favorite frozen fruits on hand in your freezer, then once a week hit up the farmer’s market for in-season fresh varieties. Stasher Bags are great for storing items air tight!
Frozen Bananas -we get a big bunch (or two) of bananas, chop them up, and freeze them. Here’s a video to help!
Frozen Berries, Pineapple and Mango are always at the grocery and are cost effective.
Vegetables
Just like fruit, keep some favorites frozen so they’re always on hand, and then get your fresh varieties each week at the Farmer’s Market.
Frozen whole or riced cauliflower -really popular right now, so all the markets are keeping it in stock. It adds a nice creaminess to your smoothie, but doesn’t affect the flavor.
Spinach and kale -I prefer to buy these fresh at the market, but you can stash some in baggies in your freezer.
Sweet potatoes and butternut squash- peel and roast to add to your smoothie for a boost of beta carotene. You can even freeze them in ice cube trays before tossing in.
Dairy
Milk -cow’s, nut, hemp, coconut and other plant based if you have digestion issues or lead a vegan or paleo lifestyle.
Yogurt: I prefer using greek yogurt as it’s high in protein and plain or other yogurt made with little to no added sugar.
Kefir
Yogurt -I like to keep plain greek yogurt on hand because it is higher in protein and lower in sugar. Flavored varieties are great, too, if that’s what gets your family on the smoothie train.
Protein
Nuts and Seeds -store these in the freezer to maximize freshness. I keep and use hemp and chia seeds weekly as a brain booster, omega 3 fatty acid, high protein food.
Nut Butters -peanut, almond, cashew, sunflower, or your favorite blend
Protein Powder -you can find endless flavors and ingredients. Plant based, milk based, specifically for kids, fortified with other nutrients. Two of my favorite brands are Ora Organics and Plant Fusion. Visit your local health food store and pick up some sample packets to help find your favorite. Vital Proteins collagen peptides is a favorite in this house and makes your smoothie even creamier.
Extras
Bee Pollen -high in protein, vitamins, and help builds immunity to local allergens.
Cocoa Powder -loaded with antioxidants, and it’s chocolate! What’s not to love?
Sweeteners -honey, maple syrup, and dates can all be stored long term at room temperature.
This post is all about the pantry, but I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention my favorite high powered blender and glass straws. What are your favorite smoothie ingredients to keep on hand? I would love to know in the comments below!
Yes! I’m so glad to hear the smoothies are working for you and your kids!