Recipe: Sunshine Smoothie with Coconut, Clementine and Turmeric

I am perpetually delighted by the fact that citrus comes into season at the very moment when we could use an extra boost of sunshine and vitamin C. And though citrus fruits aren’t the most common of smoothie ingredients, I really think they should be. Here’s a bright and fresh smoothie filled with clementines, coconut, and turmeric. Like a healthified Orange Julius, it makes a fabulous, filling breakfast or replenishing post-workout meal.

This vegan-friendly and banana-free smoothie is made with naturally sweet, potassium-filled coconut water and a bit of coconut milk for creamy flavor. Rolled oats help thicken the smoothie, plus I find that the extra protein and fiber hold me over until the next meal. (If you add the optional maca powder you’ll get even more protein and fiber. Maca is an acquired taste for some, but I like the malty flavor it adds.)

Now for the sunshine. This smoothie contains two clementines for a delicious dose of vitamin C. Frozen orange segments provide the best texture (I peel and freeze them the night before) but fresh ones are fine if you want your drink a little less cold. Turmeric brings another shot of color, and along with ginger, it

warms up the smoothie