Simple Twist
Secrets to a better smoothie
Hearing the blender sputter, stall, and grind to a halt is no way to start your day—let alone make a smoothie. For the best mixture, pour in liquids first to give the blades freedom to spin, says Jenna Helwig, food director at REAL SIMPLE and author of Smoothie-licious. Next, layer in greens like kale or spinach, which “helps them break down so your smoothie doesn’t eat like a salad,” she says. Top the greens with nut butters and fresh fruits and vegetables, then finish with anything frozen. “You want to add icy stuff last so the less dense ingredients can blend first,” she says. “That will help keep your blender running more smoothly and provide a tastier drink.” —Brandi Broxson