Serves 2

An exciting deviation from strawberries and bananas, this healthy green smoothie uses the sweet and crisp flavor of Asian pear with almond butter. Watercress is a detoxifier and adds a touch of spice, but not too much to overpower. This is a sweet smoothie with all the benefits of good fats, protein and greens.

Nutrition Tip: Smoothies don’t have to freeze your brain off! For thickening, replace frozen fruit with nut butters, dried fruits or avocado. Of course, bananas do the trick too. Think green by adding leafy green veggies like spinach, lettuce, kale, arugula and watercress. Nut butters add protein and fat to balance any carbohydrate. Always use high quality protein powders; I recommend professional brands available through a nutritionist.

2 1/2 cups whole raw milk or Homemade Nut Milk
1 medium Asian pear
Handful watercress
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 of a ripe avocado
6 tablespoons almond butter
2 scoops high quality protein powder
4 pitted dates
1-2 droppers liquid stevia extract (or add more dates)

Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner consistency, if desired.

Food photos by Jackson D. Carson

Copyright Alison Anton. 2010. All rights reserved.