Super Soy Smoothies

(Family Features) - This summer, when you're craving a cool drink, why not set your sights on something truly worth coveting? We're talking about a delicious, creamy soy smoothie. Whirl flavored soymilk, silken tofu and fresh fruit in your blender until smooth. Then, pour, serve and enjoy. This is one drink that may taste velvety and decadent, but has a huge health payoff.

These soy smoothies are rich in protein and fiber, but low in fat and calories. They contain no cholesterol and no trans fats and are dairy, gluten and lactose-free. They also provide the added benefit of helping you get your 2 to 3 recommended daily servings of fruit.

Chef Jim Coleman, host of the PBS cooking show, "Healthy Flavors," often uses foods rich in soy in his recipes. "Soy is incredibly versatile and adds so much nutritional value to a dish," Coleman says. "Right now, I'm using a lot of flavored soymilk for summer smoothies and desserts - it's a simple way to add great flavor and get more health benefit from a recipe."

Coleman looks for organic soymilk products, such as those made by Vitasoy. He notes that organic soymilk has the added benefit of containing no genetically modified ingredients and no artificial ingredients or flavors; it's also kosher and vegan.

So, the next time you're tempted to reach for a sugary caffeinated soda or a calorie-laden beer or cocktail, grab a soy smoothie instead. These sweet summer shakes offer the same great taste and refreshment - minus the guilt.

Soy for Health

Soy is the only complete vegetable protein containing all nine amino acids the human body needs. Unlike animal protein, soy contains no cholesterol and is low in saturated fat, while providing important Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Soy is also a great source of fiber and is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Soy is believed to play an important role in disease prevention as well; it has been linked to decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, osteoporosis and diabetes.

Sensational Strawberry Banana Smoothie
This smoothie offers a full four grams of protein per serving and is low in fat and calories.
Makes: 2-3 servings

16 ounces Vitasoy Strawberry Banana flavored soymilk
1/2 cup Nasoya or Azumaya Silken Tofu
1 ripe, medium-sized banana
1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries

Place ingredients in blender and mix until smooth. If desired, add honey or sweetener to taste.

Nutritionals per serving, 2 servings per batch:

Calories: 230, Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 0.5g, Protein: 11g, Cholesterol: 0mg

Nutritionals per serving, 3 per batch:

Calories: 150, Fat: 3.5g, Sat Fat: 0g, Protein: 7g, Cholesterol: 0mg

Outrageous Chocolate Banana Smoothie
Low in fat and calories, this smoothie also boasts a full four grams of protein per serving.
Makes: 2-3 servings

16 ounces Vitasoy Chocolate Banana flavored soymilk
1/2 cup Nasoya or Azumaya Silken Tofu
1 ripe, medium-sized banana
1 Tablespoon, cocoa powder

Place ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth. If desired, add honey or sweetener to taste.

Nutritionals per serving, 2 servings per batch:

Calories: 220, Fat: 6g, Sat Fat: 0.5g, Protein: 8g, Cholesterol: 0mg

Nutritionals per serving, 3 servings per batch:

Calories: 150, Fat: 4g, Sat Fat: 0.5g, Protein: 5g, Cholesterol: 0mg

For additional creative and healthy soy recipes, visit www.vitasoy-usa.com or call 1-800-VITASOY (848-2769).

SOURCE: Vitasoy