Try This Chia-Powered Pomegranate Smoothie Recipe Right Now

Did you know it's pomegranate season? Indeed it is! The season usually runs from October through February, a welcome time for this bright red, juicy fruit. Pomegranates are incredibly high in vitamin C and antioxidants, and therefore practically the definition of a "beauty food." When selecting pomegranates, look for a deep-colored fruit with a red to reddish-brown outer rind. When stored in a refrigerator, the fruit will last three to four weeks unopened; once you seed the pomegranate, it should be enjoyed within two to three days. If you want to save those antioxidant boosting seeds, they can be frozen in a sealed bag for up to a year. There are a million delicious ways to enjoy pomegranates, but this time we took a cue from Charlotte's Book expert nutritionist Holli Thompson, author of Discover Your Nutritional Style: her slightly spicy, slightly sweet, totally satisfying recipe for a pomegranate smoothie, below.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup pomegranate seeds 1 banana, frozen is best 2 medjool dates, pitted 2 cups hemp milk, or any non-dairy milk you prefer 1 tablespoon hemp protein 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed 1 tablespoon chia seed dash of cayenne pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine the pomegranate seeds, banana, dates, hemp milk, protein, flaxseed, chia seeds, and cayenne pepper in a blender. Process at high speed. Wondering how to remove the delicious parts from your pomegranate? There are tons of techniques in these great videos. Holli recommends filling a large mixing bowl with cold water, then carving an X into the top of the pomegranate. Submerge the pomegranate in the water and insert your thumbs into the slits. Tear the fruit into pieces and shake the seeds lose. The seeds will sink to the bottom of the bowl, and you can simply strain them out and add to your delicious smoothie! For more seasonally delicious ways to up your nutritional game, check out Holli Thompson's beautiful blog.

Image: Holli Thompson

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