Three months ago I took the plunge and joined Weight Watchers. Unlike other times when I’ve tried weight loss programs, this time it wasn’t just about the extra weight that has plagued me most of my life. This time it was about staying healthy (I’m fortunate there that nothing major has assailed me!) and living every minute of my life more fully. I needed a lifestyle change that was easy . . . and permanent. Let’s face it, the life of a writer is not exactly an “active” lifestyle. I had made small changes for several months, but I wanted accountability and encouragement. I’ve found that in spades with Weight Watchers!
Along the way, I’ve become enamored with smoothies so thought you might enjoy a couple of my new favorites. Breakfast never tasted so good!
SKINNY PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup strong coffee
1/2 cup non-fat milk (I use non-fat Soy milk)
1 packet WW Brand Salted Caramel Smoothie Mix
1 Tbsp. flax seed meal
1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
Ice cubes
Put all ingredients in smoothie jar. Pulse, then blend until smooth. For added sweetness, add a packet of Stevia, but I’ve discovered I don’t really need it with the smoothie mix.
Variation: add 1/2 banana
Note: I freeze the pumpkin in ice cube trays, pop them into a bag and keep them in my freezer. 3 large cubes equals about 1/2 cup. I also make a STRONG pot of coffee and freeze in ice cube trays as well. Add water until you get the consistency you like.
5 PPV
6PPV with added banana
SPINACH – STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE
1 1/2 cups fresh baby spinach
1 cup fresh strawberries, halved (may use unsweetened frozen berries)
1/3 cup fat-free Greek yogurt
1 Tbsp. ground flax seed meal
1/2 cup low-caloried cranberry juice cocktail
Stevia sweetener to taste
Ice Cubes
Add all ingredients to smoothie jar. Pulse, then blend until smooth. Add ice cubes for the consistency you like.
Variations: Add blueberries or mixed berries in place of strawberries. 1/2 banana gives added smoothness (and sweetness).
4 PPV
5 PPV with added banana
This is not the loveliest of smoothies to look at, but the strawberry taste really comes through. Delish!
What unusual ingredients have you used to make a healthier diet? Any recipes you’d like to share?