Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Cherry Avocado Power Smoothie?
It is a nutritious, dairy-free smoothie that combines the creaminess of avocado with the sweetness of dark cherries, tasting similar to ice cream.
Is this smoothie vegan?
Yes, this recipe is 100% vegan and dairy-free, using only plant-based ingredients like avocado and fruit.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 410 calories in this smoothie recipe.
What ingredients do I need?
You will need one avocado, 1 3/4 cups of frozen dark sweet cherries, 1 1/2 cups of fresh baby spinach, and 1/2 cup of orange-peach-mango juice.
Can I taste the spinach in the smoothie?
No, the flavor of the dark sweet cherries and the orange-peach-mango juice masks the spinach, making it an easy way to eat greens.
Why is orange-peach-mango juice used?
Besides adding flavor, the citrus in the juice helps your body better absorb the iron from the fresh baby spinach.
How much fiber does this smoothie contain?
This smoothie is high in fiber, providing 11g per serving.
What is the fat content?
The smoothie contains 18g of healthy fats, primarily derived from the avocado.
Is it okay to use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
You can use fresh cherries, but frozen cherries provide a thicker, ice-cream-like consistency that makes the smoothie more refreshing.
How many fruit and vegetable servings are in this recipe?
This smoothie provides approximately five servings of fruits and vegetables.
Where can I find the specific juice mentioned?
The recipe recommends using orange-peach-mango juice, specifically mentioning the version available at Trader Joe's.
What should I do if the smoothie is too thick?
If the consistency is too thick, simply add a small amount of water or ice and blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
Is there any protein in this smoothie?
Yes, it contains about 5g of protein per serving.
Can I eat this for breakfast?
Absolutely! It is perfect for breakfast or as a nutritious post-workout treat.
How do I prepare the avocado?
Slice the avocado in half, remove the seed, and scoop out the flesh from the skin before adding it to the blender.
Does this smoothie contain cholesterol?
No, because it is made entirely of plant-based ingredients, it is cholesterol-free.
How much sugar is in the smoothie?
There are 42g of sugar, which comes naturally from the cherries and the fruit juice.
What equipment do I need?
A high-speed blender is recommended to ensure the spinach and avocado are fully emulsified into a smooth texture.
Is this smoothie gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use a different type of spinach?
Baby spinach is recommended for its mild flavor and tender texture, but you can use regular spinach if needed.
Can I substitute the orange-peach-mango juice?
Yes, you can substitute it with another citrus-based juice, though the specific flavor profile of the recipe will change.
How many carbohydrates are in this drink?
There are 63g of carbohydrates in one serving.
Is this smoothie good for kids?
Yes, children usually love the sweet cherry flavor and the 'ice cream' texture, and it's a great way to hide greens.
Should I add ice?
If you are using frozen cherries, you may not need ice, but you can add it if you prefer a colder or thinner consistency.
How long does it take to make?
It takes only a few minutes to prep the avocado and cherries and about 60 seconds to blend.
Can I add protein powder to this?
Yes, adding a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder works well with these flavors.
What is the sodium content?
The recipe ingredients are naturally very low in sodium, though the exact amount depends on the specific juice brand used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best served immediately for the best texture, but you can store it in the fridge for a few hours (though it may thicken).
Does the avocado make it taste like guacamole?
No, the avocado provides a neutral creaminess and its flavor is overshadowed by the sweet cherries and juice.
Is this a good meal replacement?
With 410 calories and significant fiber and healthy fats, it can serve as a light and filling meal replacement.