Nuts Again - Adding Almonds to Juices & Smoothies

The nut of Nuts!

Adding a few nuts to fresh juices and smoothies adds healthy, disease-fighting fats to our diet. I discussed walnuts in a previous post. Now let's look at what many consider the most nutritious nut of all. Smoothie machines and slow juicers can process nuts. If you don't have a 'slow' juicer just substitute almond milk for the almonds.

A Bit of History

The almond tree is believed to be one of the earliest domesticated in the world, dating as far back as 5000 years ago! Related to the peach, apricot, and cherry, almonds are thought to have originated in the Middle East. Remains have been discovered in the tomb of Tutankhamen in Egypt. Almonds spread throughout Asia and Europe along ancient trade routes.

Latest Research

Research on almonds is extensive. They have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, reduce cholesterol and diminish cholecystectomy in women. Yet another study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, found that flavonoids and vitamin E found in the skins of almonds are powerful antioxidants. Almonds have also been shown to assist in weight loss!

Amazing Benefits

Almonds are one of the most nutrient-rich of all nuts, and are among a group of fruits and veggies known as ‘superfoods.’ Almonds are abundant in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, antioxidants, and protein. They’re extremely rich in fiber and carbohydrates, low in unhealthy fats and sugars, and void of cholesterol and salt.

Now let's make my favorite juice and smoothie recipe with almonds.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup Almond milk
• 1 cup Coconut water
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened Cacao powder
• 1 cup Almonds with their skins
• 1 Banana
• 1 Apple
• 1 teaspoon Chia Seeds

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 20 oz.

PREPARATION

• This is an outstandingly delicious and nutritious juice or smoothie.
• As a juice recipe I do not add the almond milk or coconut water.