Refreshing vegan ash gourd hydration smoothies
What's the story
Ash gourd (aka winter melon or petha) is a magical vegetable and an absolute game-changer when it comes to making super refreshing and hydrating vegan smoothies.
These smoothies taste amazing and are also full of nutrients that provide a ton of health benefits.
Read on for some easy and delicious recipes, and discover why ash gourd is the ultimate secret ingredient for hydration smoothies.
Ingredient 1
The base: Ash gourd magic
The ash gourd is a low-calorie vegetable with a high water content, making it an excellent choice for hydration.
It's a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and zinc, which support immune health.
To incorporate it into your smoothie, simply remove the skin, get rid of the seeds, and chop the flesh into cubes.
Ingredient 2
Sweeten naturally with dates
If you want to sweeten your ash gourd smoothie without resorting to refined sugar, dates are your best friend.
They're not only sweet but also packed with fiber (hello, happy digestion!). Plus, the natural sugars in dates give you a nice energy boost.
Just make sure to remove the pits before tossing them in your blender.
Ingredient 3
Boost with chia seeds
Chia seeds are the perfect vegan smoothie enhancer, they not only add thickness to the texture but also amp up the nutrition factor.
They're packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber, iron, and calcium.
Pro tip: Soak chia seeds in water for 15 minutes before blending for a smoother consistency in your ash gourd hydration smoothie.
Ingredient 4
Flavor twist with mint leaves
Mint leaves do more than just infuse your ash gourd smoothie with a burst of refreshing flavor—they also bring a host of health benefits to the table.
They're great for digestion and can soothe indigestion and inflammation.
A handful of fresh mint leaves will enhance the flavor of your hydration drink while amplifying its cooling effect.
Dish 1
The ultimate hydration smoothie recipe
Blend one cup of chopped ash gourd, four pitted dates, one tablespoon soaked chia seeds, and a handful of mint leaves with ice if desired.
This vegan smoothie is perfect for rehydration on hot days or after workouts. It combines refreshment with nutrition.
Drink immediately for optimal freshness and benefits.