Versatility is something we all look for, and what food is more versatile than smoothies? Smoothies can include many ingredients like leafy greens, tart fruit, hearty sweet potatoes, nutty peanut butter, sweet chocolate, and many more options. They can be sweet, tart, and even savory. With so many options, there is a smoothie for everyone.
So where did today’s smoothies come from?
Smoothies have electric blenders to thank for their popularity. Following the rise of in-home refrigeration, the average person had easy access to perishable items like fruit and milk. With blenders then coming to the market in the 1930s, people could experiment with more items on hand to create flavorful purees. Among them were health store owners looking for healthy drinks to sell to customers, introducing smoothies as a good option for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. However, the term was not yet commonplace.
Smoothie recipes began to appear over the following years. By the 1960s, smoothie options could be found outside of health stores, spanning from beverages considered healthy to drinks that were a refreshing treat.
These early recipes were often fruit purees with ice. Now, smoothies are a tasty way to eat more fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy each day, and they can help you achieve your goals, too. Add milk to your smoothies for a post-workout recovery drink. Milk’s natural electrolytes, carbohydrates, and high-quality protein make it more effective at improving hydration status and keeping you hydrated longer than water and sports drinks. And doubling up on your dairy by adding yogurt provides a thicker consistency.
And smoothies aren’t only a summer treat. Smoothies can be served warm. Simply heat the milk before blending ingredients for a warm smoothie to enjoy on a chilly morning. It’s an easy way to eat better all year long.
To get the most out of your smoothies, try these delicious dairy recipes:
Peanut Butter Cup Protein Smoothie