Since welcoming Augustine into the world, Matthew and I have had less time to go out. Most days are spent at home, and usually in pajamas until 2pm. Between the frequent feedings, diaper changes, and constant rocking to sleep, there’s little time for us to relax, or even make a proper meal. Most mornings our eyes hurt to open, and most evenings we’re ready to close them by 8pm!
Something we’ve been doing lately has been making smoothies while Augustine naps. Luckily newborns sleep through anything- vacuums and blenders included! Making a smoothie has been the best way for us to get a little meal in, and luckily it’s quick in case he wakes up earlier than expected. We always say we’re just 5 minutes to smoothie heaven! {I like to say this when Matthew is feeling extra hangry!} Since I add milk to my smoothies I’m also getting in extra protein- something this new mama definitely needs!
When making smoothies, I usually just use whatever frozen fruit is in the fridge + some milk, and maybe a protein powder. I feel like I’ve come up with a genius recipe though. I know it’s genius because I’ve made it more often that I can remember, I make sure to have all the ingredients in the fridge at any given time, and it’s memorized. Yep, that’s when you know you have a keeper!
Have you guys heard of fairlife milk? They have the most delicious chocolate milk you will ever have, and we’ve been buying their regular milk as well now {the chocolate milk is amazing with Iced Caramel Coffees!}. I really like that their milk has more protein and calcium, and half the sugars typically found in other milks. Matthew is sensitive to dairy so the fact that it’s lactose-free is another major bonus. The taste is the same though, in case you’re curious!
The milk in this smoothie recipe could easily be substituted for orange juice but I much prefer it with the milk. Plus, I feel like it adds a healthier quality and it’s also more filling. This is the kind of smoothie you could drink in the morning and be full until lunchtime. I’ll also sometimes make it in the afternoon if I know I’m having a late dinner and don’t want to reach for snack foods. Not that there’s anything wrong with snacks, but I like that I can take care of my calcium and fruit servings with a smoothie.
I love that smoothies are healthy and filling but they also feel like an indulgence because of the sweetness of the fruit. Since I’m breastfeeding I’m trying to still eat healthily, so smoothies totally fit the bill, especially when I add milk! If you’re interested in trying my favorite smoothie, here it is below:
Mara’s Favorite Smoothie
makes 2
INGREDIENTS
8 oz milk {I love the fairlife milk. I got the nonfat but their reduced fat is another go-to}
1 cup strawberries, frozen or fresh
1 banana, frozen or fresh
1/3 cup blueberries and blackberries
handful of spinach, about 1 cup
1 Tablespoon peanut butter
1 Tablespoon flaxseed
coconut, to add on top
DIRECTIONS
Throw all the ingredients in the blender and mix until smooth. Add flaked coconut on top! Enjoy!
Are you a smoothie drinker? If you make this one, you’ll have to let me know what you think! I have a feeling you’re going to love it!
xox
Disclosure: Thank you to fairlife for partnering with me on this post! All thoughts and opinions, as always, are my own!
photos by Anthony Ferreira
