Generally speaking I don’t adhere to the Paleo Diet- in my less-than-extensive knowledge of the diet it is just way too much meat for my flexitarian (read mostly-vegetarian) lifestyle. However, I do see how the gluten-free, dairy-free, and back-to-the-basics eating style could be helpful and healthy. So, when I was offered a review copy of Paleo Smoothies by Mariel Lewis (author of amazingpaleo.com) I accepted to dip my toes in the Paleo pool!
I could not be more glad- these smoothies are phenomenal, and the whole first part of the book gave me a wealth of information about the Paleo Diet, what it entails, and how it came to be. Then come 150 (yes, one hundred and fifty!) recipes with instructions, nutritional info, and an explanation of the benefits of each drink. I’m in love.
I’ve been working my way through the book and love that I’ve been trying so many different flavor combinations (how Ms. Lewis has figured out how to disguise banana? No clue- but I’m very grateful) everything from super simple three-ingredient drinks to a flavor-packed Dandelion Greens smoothie!
My all-time favorite smoothie –ever- is now the Soothing Lavender Smoothie. I eat lavender like it is my job (like in almond milk, ebelskivers, and Spiked Lavender Lemonade) and was so excited that the flowers were integrated so well!
The simplicity of the Almond Pear smoothie is what makes it special. It takes about 30 seconds whip up (talk about a quick breakfast!) and is velvety smooth.
Dandelion greens can be bitter, but are amazing for detoxing your liver! They are wonderfully hidden in the Dandelion Greens Smoothie which is chock full of greens, chia, avocado, and chamomile tea for starters! However, whenever I buy dandelion greens at a ‘regular’ supermarket I always get strange looks- when I bought these greens the cashier said, and I quote, “can’t you just pick these in the park?” (Wouldn’t that be cost effective- minus the pollutants!)
Overall I loved the Paleo Smoothies cookbook (light on the actual ‘cook’ bit, but that’s okay!), it was full of great recipes and was incredibly informative from nutrition to philosophy.
Have you tried the Paleo diet? Let me know in the comments below!
I was provided with a copy of Paleo Smoothie for
review. All opinions are my own.
