Mighty Veggie Smoothie

• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Makes: 2 servings

➜ Not a fan of beets? This tasty smoothie will change your mind. Plus, beets are one of the richest sources of nitrates, which aid blood flow, reduce blood pressure, and support heart health. And studies have shown that they help improve exercise ability in patients with heart failure. Garnish this beauty withfresh mint and dark chocolate shavings for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients:

• 4 small refrigerated cooked beets, sliced in
• 1-inch rounds
• 3/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup orange juice
• 2 frozen ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed

Directions:

1. In a blender, combine beets, carrots, orange juice, bananas, and flaxseed and blend until the mixture is smooth.
2. Serve in 2 glasses.

Nutrition Facts:

Per Serving: 228 calories, 2 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 4 g protein, 48 mg sodium, 51 g carbohydrates, 32 g sugars (0 g added sugar), 7 g fiber

Tip:

• Get even more veggies in this smoothie by using an unsweetened fruit-and-vegetable juice blend instead of orange juice.
• You’ll find it in the refrigerated juice section at the supermarket.