Teresa's Recipes
Chaya Smoothie
Embark on a tropical journey with this vibrant Chaya Smoothie, a delightful blend of the exotic sweetness of ripe pineapple and creamy banana, harmoniously complemented by the earthy richness of chaya leaves, often referred to as 'Mayan spinach.' This nutrient-dense smoothie is not only a delicious treat for your palate but also a powerful energizer, celebrating the culinary heritage of the Yucatan Peninsula. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this smoothie is perfect for breakfast or a refreshing afternoon snack. Enjoy a sip of the tropics while nourishing your body with nature's goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 cup, fresh and washed Chaya leaves
- 1 ripe, peeled Banana
- 1 cup, chopped and fresh Pineapple
- 1 cup, chilled Coconut water
- 1 to 2 tablespoons, to taste Honey
- 1 cup Ice cubes
- for garnish Pineapple slices or banana wheels
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 2
- Dish Type: Beverage
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 1g
- Carbs: 38g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Sugar: 20g
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly washing the fresh chaya leaves under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- In a high-speed blender, combine the chaya leaves, ripe banana, chopped pineapple, chilled coconut water, and honey.
- Add the ice cubes to the blender.
- Blend on high speed for about 30-60 seconds, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Ensure that the chaya leaves are well incorporated into the smoothie.
- Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness by adding more honey if desired, then blend again briefly to mix.
- Pour the smoothie into tall glasses and serve immediately, garnished with a slice of pineapple or a banana wheel for an extra tropical touch.
Tips
- For a thicker smoothie, add more banana or use frozen pineapple instead of fresh.
- You can substitute coconut water with almond milk or yogurt for a creamier texture.
- If you prefer a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder.