5 healthy and refreshing smoothies for summer

Summer is a season between spring and autumn when the weather is often warm and hot. This climate often leads to fatigue due to heat waves and sunny days. To combat seasonal sadness and maintain well-being, it is essential to prioritize self-care, especially through a healthy diet. And when it comes to protecting your body from heat, staying hydrated is key. However, drinking water is not the only way to do this. You can also try some smoothies made from fruits and herbs to nourish your body and make you feel cool and calm during summer.

If you’re thinking that making these smoothies might take a long time, don’t worry. All of these smoothies can be easily prepared and enjoyed.

5 smoothies for summer

Here are the 5 best smoothie recipes you can enjoy this summer:

1. Iced Apple Smoothie

Ice apple, also known as palm fruit or nungu, has a jelly-like texture and a mild sweetness that is wonderfully refreshing. “It has a high water content and refreshing properties, which makes it a perfect hydrating smoothie”, says Nutritionist Dr Rohini Patil.

Ingredients

• 3-4 chilled apples, seeds removed
• 1 cup coconut water
• A lemon juice
• Handful of mint leaves
• 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
• Ice cubes

Method: Mix chilled apples with coconut water, mint leaves and lemon juice until smooth. Add honey for a touch of sweetness, if desired. Add ice for that refreshing effect and enjoy.

2. Orange and mango smoothie

Oranges and mangoes are two of the most popular fruits in summer season. Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, while oranges provide vitamin C and antioxidant properties.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped
• 1 orange, peeled and seedless
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey or to taste
• Ice cubes

Method: Mix all ingredients with yogurt and a handful of ice cubes until smooth. The yogurt adds a creamy texture, making this smoothie not only refreshing but also filling.

Read too: Smoothies Vs Juices Vs Shakes: What’s the Best Breakfast Drink?

3. Chocolate and mint smoothie

This creamy, thick and healthy chocolate mint smoothie recipe is rich in flavors and can be very refreshing.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh spinach (for a nutrient boost)
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• 1 frozen banana
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 cup almond milk
• A handful of dark chocolate chips or cocoa nibs

Method: Blend spinach, mint leaves, frozen banana, cocoa powder and almond milk until smooth. Add the chocolate chips to add texture, transfer to a glass and enjoy.

4. Sweet potato smoothie

Sweet potatoes may seem unconventional for a smoothie, but they are known for their high fiber content and sweet, creamy texture.

Ingredients

• 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and cooled
• 1 banana
• 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or to taste

Method: Add the sweet potato, banana, milk, cinnamon and maple syrup and mix all ingredients until smooth. Pour and enjoy!

Read too: Smoothies suitable for diabetes: 4 healthy recipes for your taste buds

5. Watermelon and basil smoothie

This is one of the most hydrating smoothies you can enjoy during the summer. Although watermelon is known for its high water content, basil helps restore the body’s natural pH levels and enhance the flavor of the smoothie.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped watermelon
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 lemon juice
• Ice cubes

Method: Mix watermelon, basil and lemon juice until smooth. Enjoy immediately for a super refreshing drink.

So, try these smoothies to stay cool and calm to beat the scorching heat!