Spinach and Strawberry Smoothie

As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, the folks at La Nay Ferme Farm in Provo gave me some spinach and other produce, and in exchange, asked if I would come up with some recipes.

Spinach is a great stealth veggie because it doesn’t have a strong flavor. “The Biggest Loser” winner Deni Hill told me that on “The Ranch,” the BL contestants often added spinach to their smoothies for an extra nutrition boost.

A lot of people use spinach and/or kale in their morning “green drink.”  I prefer to disguise mine with a strawberries. Once it’s blended, you can’t see any green leaves, although it’s more of a tan color instead of a pretty pink. But if you shut your eyes and sip it, and you won’t notice the spinach is there.  This is a combination green drink/smoothie.  You can add a scoop of nonfat dry milk to give yourself some extra calcium.

STRAWBERRY-SPINACH SMOOTHIE

1 large handful of fresh spinach leaves (about 2 cups)

2 to 3 cups fresh or frozen strawberries

2 scoops protein powder mix

1 tablespoon sugar, Splenda or agave syrup (or sweeten to your own preference)

2 cups warm water  — if using frozen strawberries

1 cup crushed ice plus 1 cup water — if using fresh strawberries

1/3 cup nonfat dry milk, optional

Place the spinach, strawberries and  protein powder in a blender.  If using frozen strawberries, pour the warm water over the top of the berries and wait a few minutes. Pulse the blender a few times to get the berries chopped, then puree until smooth.

If using fresh strawberries, add all ingredients and puree until smooth.

Makes about 2 12-ounce servings.

— Valerie Phillips