Carrot Smoothie Recipes and Nutrition

Carrots add a great nutritional element and can be used in many smoothie recipes. Their delicate flavor is easily masked by or even complements many fruits.
They blend especially well with oranges, apples, ginger and mango.

Carrot Nutrition and Health Benefits

Carrots are famously rich in beta carotene, which the body processes into vitamin A. We’ve all grown up with the knowledge that carrots are good for your eyesight. Carrots also pack a well-rounded nutritional punch including vitamins C, B3, B6, E and K as well as minerals such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, molybdenum and potassium. They are also a great source of dietary fiber.
Nutrients in carrots may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Carrots are famous for protecting vision, especially night vision. Beta carotene, of which carrots are one of the riches sources, has been studied for its potential in reducing the risk of certain cancers.

Carrot Smoothie Recipes

Carrots can be added to most smoothies and despite their hard, fibrous texture, blend up nicely in a high-powered blender. Here are a few of my favorite smoothie recipes that call for carrots:
Carrot-Apricot Smoothie
2 apricots
1 apple
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
2 whole carrots
1/2 cup water
Calories: 176 | Fat: 0.8g (grams) | Protein: 4.8g | Carbs: 43.7g | Calcium: 13% | Vitamin A: 453% | Vitamin C: 77%
Carrot-Mango Smoothie
1 mango
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
2 whole carrots
1/2 cup water
Calories: 205 | Fat: 1g (gram) | Protein: 4.5g | Carbs: 52g | Calcium: 14% | Vitamin A: 458% | Vitamin C: 150%
Carrot-Apple Smoothie
2 whole carrots
1 apple
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
½ cucumber
1/2 cup water
Calories: 164 | Fat: 0.7g (grams) | Protein: 4.8g | Carbs: 41.3g | Calcium: 15.5% | Vitamin A: 430% | Vitamin C: 72%

How To Select Carrots

Carrots are readily available year round, inexpensive and keep well for several weeks in the refrigerator as long as they are protected from drying out.
Carrots rank 63 out of 100 for potential pesticide load according to the studies conducted by the Environmental Working Group, so you should purchase organic carrots whenever possible.