Love is in the air. Valentine's day is quickly approaching and the evidence stretches near and far -- there are heart shaped labels on coffee cups, the sudden appearance of sprinkle covered chocolate hearts, the mention of Valentine's and love notes, the emergence of pink and red all over, and the sudden lovey-dovey vibe that has settled into the atmosphere. I thought I would put my own spin on the day and make something that loves you from the inside out -- The Smoothie of Love! It's pink and vibrant and a glowing picture of love. It'll give you lasting energy for all your fun Saturday activities and can be the perfect start to a wonderful day. Yesterday, I told you that I was glad I'm single for Valentine's Day. But today, I'm glad for another reason. I get to make this amazing recipe come Saturday morning and drink it all by myself!

Berries & Beets Smoothie

// Ingredients //

1 cup frozen red berries (I used strawberries and some raspberries)

1/4 cup thinly sliced raw beet

1/2 banana (I used 1/2 of a frozen one)

1 tbs chia seeds (can also use flax seeds)

2 tbs cashews (or any nut of choice; sub 1 tbs nut butter if you don't have whole nuts on hand)

8 oz. unsweetened almond milk (or dairy of choice)

Optional || 2 tbs hemp protein powder, a tsp of maca powder, a handful of washed kale with stems removed, or anything else that fills your heart with joy

Combine the above ingredients in a blender, blend on high for about 45 seconds, or until well-incorporated. Add more almond milk or water to thin. Add ice or another 1/2 of a frozen banana to thicken. Pour into tall glass and feel the love!

Some of the beautiful benefits of this recipe include ...

Beets | high in vitamins and minerals and a wonderful detoxifying food, beets are a great source of energy. they release sugar slowly and help draw out toxins from your body, supplying you with vitamin A, B, & C, plus magnesium and iron -- just to name a few!

Banana | other than being an amazing source of potassium, bananas are a great source of tryptophan which converts to serotonin in the body, making you feel calm, happy, and relaxed.

Red berries | strawberries are an excellent source of Vitamin C while also being incredible antioxidants, just like raspberries

Cashews | full of amazing nutrients like copper, magnesium, phosphorous, manganese, and zinc, cashews have a lower fat content than other nuts, help maintain a healthy heart, and can build strong muscles

Chia Seeds | probably my favorite and most versatile food, chia seeds contain healthy omega-3s, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and calcium

+ how do you feel about pink drinks? unexpected pairings in smoothies are the best! have any crazy pairings you love?

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