I’ve always believed that a good smoothie is like a tiny vacation in a glass. It’s like that moment when you find a $20 bill in an old coat pocket—unexpectedly delightful. With its vibrant mix of cucumber, pineapple, and lemon, this smoothie feels like a burst of summer sunshine on a cloudy day, even if you’re just sipping it on your couch binge-watching the latest season of your favorite show.
Steps
- Begin by preparing your ingredients: chop half an English cucumber, roughly chop the leaves from a bunch of flat-leaf parsley, and peel and seed two medium lemons.
- Measure two cups of frozen fresh pineapple and set aside. Optionally, gather five drops of liquid stevia and some fresh ginger for added flavor.
- Pour 3/4 cup of coconut water (or plain water) into a large blender. Add in the chopped cucumber, parsley leaves, peeled lemons, frozen pineapple, and any optional ingredients like stevia or ginger.
- Blend all the ingredients together on high speed for about one minute until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Once blended, divide the smoothie evenly into two cups and serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup coconut water (or plain water)
- 1/2 English cucumber, chopped
- 1 bunch flat leaf parsley, leaves only, chopped
- 2 medium lemons, peeled and seeds removed
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, frozen
- 5 drops liquid stevia (optional)
- Fresh ginger (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 236 kcal | Carbohydrates: 62 g | Protein: 4 g | Sodium: 48 mg | Fiber: 10 g | Sugar: 36 g
FAQ
- What are the main benefits of the Cucumber, Parsley, Pineapple, and Lemon Smoothie?
- This smoothie is excellent for reducing inflammation, easing asthma symptoms, and combating airborne allergies. The parsley in the smoothie helps neutralize acids, cleanse the skin, and detoxify tissues and organs.
- Can I substitute the coconut water in the smoothie recipe?
- Yes, you can replace coconut water with regular water if preferred. Coconut water adds a hint of sweetness and electrolytes, but water will work just fine.
- Is the smoothie suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
- Absolutely, this smoothie is dairy-free, vegan, paleo, and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
- How can I adjust the sweetness of the smoothie?
- You can add five drops of liquid stevia to enhance the sweetness. This step is optional, so adjust to your taste preference.
- How long does it take to prepare the smoothie?
- The smoothie takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy option for a healthy snack or post-workout meal.
Tips
- For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a small amount of fresh ginger to the smoothie. It complements the existing ingredients and adds a zesty note.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can include a few drops of liquid stevia. This is optional, but it can enhance the natural sweetness of the pineapple.
- Using frozen pineapple instead of fresh can give the smoothie a thicker, more refreshing texture, especially on warm days.
- To ensure a smooth and creamy consistency, blend the ingredients on high for at least one minute. This helps to fully incorporate all the elements and achieve the desired texture.
Equipment
- High-powered blender
