Zesty Lemon-Ginger Glow

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## The Recipe: Zesty Lemon-Ginger Glow

  • Prep time: 5 minutes

  • Servings: 1 large or 2 small smoothies

  • Equipment: High-speed blender

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Frozen mango chunks (provides creaminess without dairy)

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt (for a vegan option)

  • 1/2 inch Fresh ginger root, peeled and roughly chopped

  • 1/2 Organic lemon, juiced (plus a pinch of zest for extra punch)

  • 1/2 tsp Ground turmeric (optional, for color and anti-inflammatory boost)

  • 1 cup Unsweetened almond milk or coconut water

  • 1 tsp Honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ginger: Peel the ginger using the edge of a spoon—it’s the easiest way to get around the bumps!

  2. Combine: Place the liquid base into the blender first, followed by the yogurt, ginger, lemon juice, and finally the frozen mango.

  3. Blend: Start on a low speed and gradually increase to high. Blend for 45–60 seconds until completely smooth.

  4. Taste Test: If it’s too tart, add a touch more honey. If it’s too thick, splash in a little more almond milk.

  5. Serve: Pour into a chilled glass and top with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a thin slice of fresh ginger.

## Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Estimated values based on standard ingredients:

Nutrient Amount
Calories 185 kcal
Protein 8g
Fiber 4g
Sugar 22g (natural)
Vitamin C 65% DV

## Benefits & Why It Works

  • Digestion Hero: Ginger contains gingerol, which aids digestion and helps soothe an upset stomach.

  • Immune Support: High levels of Vitamin C from the lemon and mango help bolster your body’s defenses.

  • Natural Energy: Unlike coffee, the natural sugars and electrolytes provide a steady lift without the caffeine crash.

## Pro Tips for Success

  • Freeze Your Lemons: If you have lemons about to go bad, juice them into ice cube trays. Toss 2 cubes into the blender instead of fresh juice for an extra-cold texture.

  • Smooth Ginger: If you don’t have a high-speed blender, grate the ginger first to avoid finding spicy “chunks” in your straw.

  • Add Greens: Want to make it a meal? Add a handful of baby spinach. It will turn the smoothie bright green, but the lemon and ginger will completely mask the flavor.

## Common Q&A

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?

A: You can, but fresh is much better. Bottled juice often has preservatives and lacks the bright, floral aroma of a freshly squeezed lemon.

Q: Is the ginger too spicy for kids?

A: Ginger has a “slow burn.” If serving to children, start with a pea-sized amount and work your way up.

Q: Can I prep this the night before?

A: Smoothies are best fresh. However, you can prep “smoothie packs” by putting the mango, ginger, and lemon zest in a freezer bag. In the morning, just add the liquid, yogurt, and juice, then blend!

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