If you ask me, there are very few things that sound more refreshing on a hot, humid day than a creamy, blended frozen treat. Whether sipped on for breakfast or slurped down in the afternoon as an energizing snack, a summertime smoothie is the perfect antidote to beat the heat.

I should know, as there is not a day that passes in these sticky summer months where I don’t have the blender running. While I might just be on my way to having a smoothie addiction — OK, I confess, I’m already addicted! — the great part about all this practice is I have nailed down quite a few tasty recipes to share with you. You know, to fuel your addiction, too. And the best part? Each recipe is seriously nutrient-packed. From fruits and veggies to vitamins, antioxidants and proteins, no matter which one you decide to whip up first, your taste-buds will be dancing with joy.

So go ahead and warn your neighbors, because after reading the recipes below, chances are you’ll have your blender cranked up on high.

Ready for some blended bliss? Let’s go!

1. A Blueberry Lavender Slow Down

What is it about the sweet fragrance of lavender that makes your mind instantly slow down? True magic, if you ask me. And the same goes for this smoothie.

If you’re looking for a quick way to ease your rattled nerves, this one is for you. It’s not only refreshing and healthy, but also very calming. With only about a pinch of lavender, it is just enough to add a slightly sweet taste while leaving a rather soothing smell. And the creaminess that stems from the banana and greek yogurt? Simply divine.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• 1/2 banana
• 1 cup almond milk (plain or vanilla flavors work)
• 1 teaspoon lavender
• 1 teaspoon non-fat greek yogurt

Optional ingredients: 

• 2 teaspoons chia seeds
• handful of spinach (you know, to get some extra greens!)
• drizzle of maple syrup

Place all ingredients into the blender, and blend until completely smooth. Yields 2 cups.

2. The Ultimate Green Detox

With all the outdoor barbecues, summer parties, and backyard grilling sessions, it doesn’t take long before your body can start to feel weighed down. In comes the Ultimate Green Detox. This green-machine of a smoothie is a great fix after a few nights of indulging.

With kale, cilantro, and spinach, this nutrient-rich treat oozes with powerful superfoods to detoxify your body. It’s basically like liquefying a whole lot of veggies and drinking a salad. But don’t worry, if just the thought of a liquid salad makes you squirm, the pineapple comes to the rescue by adding a kiss of sweetness. Trust me, a few rounds of this nourishing drink is all you’ll need to feel restored, reenergized, and alive. Ah, the cleansing power of green!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen pineapple
• 1/2 cup almond milk (plain or vanilla flavors work)
• 1/2 cup coconut water
• 1/2 small cucumber chopped
• a handful of spinach and kale
• 4 basil leaves
• 4 mint leaves
• 2 sprigs of cilantro

Place all ingredients into the blender, and blend until completely smooth. Yields 2 cups.

3. Carrots, Oranges, Peaches — Oh, My!

Immune-boosting. Light-tasting. And oh, so delicious. This recipe is practically sunshine in a cup, and pretty much the perfect kickstart to a new day. And don’t even get me started on the health benefits!

From the infection-fighting ginger to the anti-inflammatory turmeric and vitamin-rich oranges and carrots, I’m quite surprised it’s not a crime for a drink to be this tasty and this good for you. So if your energy is running low or you’re looking for a little morning glow, this zingy, naturally-sweetened smoothie will certainly do the trick.

Ingredients:

• 2 small carrots chopped
• 1/2 small orange (or 2 clementines)
• 1/2 cup frozen peaches
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 small knob of ginger peeled
• 1 cup almond milk (plain or vanilla flavors work)

Place all ingredients into the blender, and blend until completely smooth. Yields 2 cups.

*If you decide to use fresh fruit instead of frozen in any of the recipes listed above, be sure to add a couple cubes of ice for an extra chilling, frozen taste.

Happy blending!

–

Image sources: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4