Apple Pie Smoothie

I whip up this smoothie when I need a sweet tooth fix. It adds something that tastes decadent but still  healthy!  I have a stash of fresh cardamom that my friend brought me from India and thought it would be the perfect addition to this recipe. The scent is intoxicating and will linger with you and your kitchen for hours after using. Though cardamom  is more popularly used as a herbal spice, usually  added in dishes to provide a strong aroma and flavor, but in Ayurvedic wisdom (medical practice of India) it is considered to be a very useful and effective medicine. Cardamom is effective in improving digestion, a good stimulant and beneficial for those suffering from flatulence and gas. Cardamom also helps in cleansing the body as it has detoxifying properties. It improves blood circulation to the lungs and can be helpful  in small quantities for those suffering from asthma or bronchitis.

Whip up this delight now and take an exotic trip with this comfort smoothie!!   

Apple Pie Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1 cup of almond milk (unsweetened)

• 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder

• 1 empire apple, sliced, not peeled

• 1/2 ripe banana

• 1 lg spoonful of creamy almond butter

• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon or more to taste

• Seeds from 4 cardamom pods, crushed

• 1/8 tsp. fresh grated nutmeg

• 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed

• 2 Tbsp. coconut oil

• 1/2  cup crushed ice

Instructions

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Garnish with cinnamon sprinkles, fresh cinnamon sticks.

Note: All ingredient measurements are approximate and should be adjusted to personal taste. Here's to your good health!

Enjoy,

Claudia