Pomegranate Berry Smoothie

for glowing radiant skin!

Read the GLOW Food benefits of pomegranates

• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (or 1/2 cup pomegranate juice if seeds are not available)
• 1 cup frozen mixed berries (you can use strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, or a mix)
• 1 banana, preferably frozen for creaminess
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative for creaminess and protein
• 1/2 cup almond milk or any milk of your choice (adjust based on desired thickness)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• A few ice cubes (if you're not using frozen fruits)

1. Prepare the Pomegranate:
   • If using pomegranate seeds, you can keep them whole or blend them for a smoother texture. If using juice, measure out 1/2 cup.
2. Blend:
   • Add the pomegranate seeds or juice, frozen berries, banana, yogurt, and almond milk into a blender.
   • If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, add honey or maple syrup now.
3. Blend Until Smooth:
   • Blend on high speed until everything is well combined and smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk or water. If too thin, add more frozen fruit or ice.
4. Adjust Consistency and Taste:
   • Taste the smoothie. If you want it thicker, add more ice or frozen fruit; if it needs to be sweeter, add a bit more sweetener.
5. Serve:
   • Pour into a glass, garnish with a few extra pomegranate seeds or a berry if desired, and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

• Texture: For a smoother drink, blend the pomegranate seeds first before adding the other ingredients, or strain the juice if using whole seeds.
• Variations: You can add spinach or kale for a green boost, or include chia seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s. For a tropical twist, replace berries with mango or pineapple.
• Storage: Best consumed fresh, but if you need to store it, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before drinking as separation might occur.

• A sharp knife
• A large bowl
• A spoon or wooden spoon

1. Prepare Your Workspace:
   • Place a large bowl in your sink or on a countertop where you can manage any juice splashes. This will help contain the mess.
2. Cut Off the Top:
   • With a sharp knife, slice off the crown (the top part where the stem was) of the pomegranate. Cut about 1/2 inch deep to expose the seeds inside.
3. Score the Skin:
   • Look for the natural sections or ridges on the pomegranate. These are white pith lines that divide the fruit into sections. Make shallow cuts along these lines from the top to the bottom, but only cut through the outer skin and a bit into the white pith, not all the way through to the seeds. You'll typically make 5-6 cuts.
4. Break Apart:
   • Gently pull the pomegranate apart along the cuts you've made. If it doesn't separate easily, you can widen the cuts slightly.

1. Remove Seeds (Method 1 - Water Method):
   • Fill the bowl with water. Submerge one section of the pomegranate in the water and start breaking it apart with your hands. The seeds will sink to the bottom, while the white pith will float. This method reduces juice splatter and makes separating the seeds easier. After loosening all the seeds, skim off the floating pith and strain out the water to collect your seeds.
   
   
   Alternative Method (Method 2 - Tapping Method):
   • If you're not using water, hold one section of the pomegranate cut-side down over the bowl and use a spoon or the back of a wooden spoon to tap firmly on the back of the fruit. The seeds will start to fall out into the bowl. Rotate the section as you tap until all or most seeds are dislodged.
2. Clean Up:
   • If you've used the water method, you'll have less to clean up. Otherwise, quickly dispose of the skins and pith. Wash any juice off your hands and tools immediately to avoid staining.

• Wear an apron or old clothes since pomegranate juice can stain.
• Use a sharp knife for cleaner cuts through the tough skin.
• Do this task in the sink if possible, for easy cleanup of any juice or bits.
• Save the juice: If you get juice in your bowl, don't throw it away. It's delicious and nutritious; you can drink it, use it in recipes, or freeze it for later.