Blueberry Almond Butter Smoothie

Blueberries are full of antioxidants, which can help prevent illnesses such as cancer and heart disease. In this blueberry almond butter smoothie recipe, blueberries join other nutrient-rich ingredients, such as bananas, almond butter, and flaxseed, to help create a healthy alternative to sugar-filled beverages.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups ripe chunks frozen banana
• 1/2 cup frozen blueberries (wild, organic when possible)
• 1 Tbsp almond butter (or peanut or sunflower seed butter)
• 3/4 cup unsweetened plain almond milk
• 1 Tbsp flaxseed meal
• 1 Tbsp chia seed
• 1-2 Tbsp protein powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add frozen banana, blueberries, almond butter, flaxseed meal, chia seeds, and almond milk to a high-speed blender and blend on high until creamy and smooth. Protein powder is optional and I skipped it, but it would make a great addition for more staying powder (just know it will affect the flavor/sweetness).
2. If it has trouble blending, add a bit more almond milk. Then taste and adjust flavor as needed, adding more banana (or a bit of stevia) for sweetness, blueberries for fruitiness, almond butter for nuttiness/creaminess, or almond milk to thin.
3. To serve: An optional step is to pour a bit of light coconut milk or almond milk into your serving glass(es) first and then top with the smoothie for a swirl effect! Coconut milk is thicker and makes a better swirl, but both work.
4. Garnish with additional chia seeds and/or almond butter (optional) and enjoy! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though best when fresh.