Pistachio Green Tea Smoothie

Disclosure: I received free samples of Wonderful Pistachios mentioned in this post. By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Wonderful Pistachios and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.

February is heart health month and I wanted an heart healthy smoothie! This one features pistachios. Pistachios are one of the highest protein, highest fiber and lowest calorie, lowest fat snack nuts. The colorful green and purple hues of the nuts are loaded with antioxidants. Studies have suggested that eating 1.5 ounces of nuts (including pistachios) per day along with a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. When snacking on pistachios the in shell variety may help you control portion size better as the discarded shells give a visual cue about how many you have eaten. The pistachios in this smoothie are a source of protein, fiber, and flavor!

This recipe also uses green tea as the liquid and studies have shown green tea drinkers to have lower rates of heart disease. I recommend brewing and chilling the tea, but if time is an issue you can blend with warm tea, just add in some ice also. 

The spices included in this smoothie, cinnamon and cardamom, also have been suggested to reduce heart disease risk and have antioxidant properties. They add hints of sweetness without sugar. 

We also know eating a variety of fruits and vegetables also reduces heart disease risk. This recipe includes pineapple, banana, dates and gogi berries. 

So go ahead and enjoy this Pistachio Green Tea Smoothie!

Pistachio Green Tea Smoothie

Makes about 4 10-ounce servings

• 1 1/2 cups frozen pineapple chunks
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup shelled Wonderful Pistachios*
• 1/4 cup date paste
• 16 ounces prepared green tea, chilled
• 3 Tbsp dried gogi berries*
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp cardamom
• 2-3 Tbsp chopped Wonderful Pistachios, for garnish

*if your blender is mediocre (like mine) soaking these in some water and then draining before adding to the smoothie is helpful for a smoother consistency.

Add all ingredients to the blender and blend until smooth. Divide into 4 cups, garnish with some chopped Wonderful Pistachios and enjoy!

If you don't need 4 servings immediately you can freeze the mix, then thaw and re-blend with some ice when ready to drink.

Click the Recipe Redux link below to check out more Wonderful Pistachio recipes.

Health really does happen at home,

Erin Marie