April 13, 2010

Snacks A Go-Go: Acai Antioxidant Shake

Every month we turn to our trusted gal pal, Suzanne Selmo to tantalize our taste buds with one of her creative culinary concoctions! The diva chef extraordinaire completed the Professional Series at the New School of Cooking and is also a Certified Yoga Instructor who is equally passionate about food & fitness. Join the food frenzy!

Acai, pronounced ah-sa-ee, is a fruit that comes from a special palm tree in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. The berry has received a lot of attention lately, with nutritionists touting it as the new ’it’ food. Some claim that it supports weight loss, improved sexual performance, improved digestion, detoxification, and even improves sleep. The jury’s out on these claims for now. What we do know is that it is high in antioxidants. Antioxidants work as little scavengers, taking care of any free-radicals that may cause cell or tissue damage. Think of antioxidants as little Pac-Mans inside your body, eating up any cancer-producing cells. The combination of the dark blue and red berries, the acai, and the pomegranate really packs an antioxidant punch. There is fiber in the fruit and the coconut water, which will keep you full and aid in digestion. And you’ll get some protein from the coconut water as well. This is an ideal snack after a workout or as an alternative to the same old cereal for breakfast. Enjoy!

1 Frozen Acai Smoothie Pack (or 1/2 cup juice)

1 cup frozen mixed berries

1/2 cup frozen peaches

8 oz. coconut water

1/4 cup pomegranate juice

1 Tablespoon agave nectar

Combine all ingredients in blender and blend on high. Add a little more pomegranate juice for a smoother texture, less for a thicker texture.

Serves 2.

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