Chai Spiced Pear Smoothie
![Pear Smoothie](https://cdn.winsightmedia.com/platform/files/public/2022-12/background/Pear%20Smoothie%20final.jpg?VersionId=4XasZaRkttvCkKvNf_3zd9DU6vq2ssK3)
Chef Robert Schram
Clovis West High School
Clovis, Calif.
Chef Robert Schram created his own chai spice blend for this quick smoothie. It can be made ahead and stored in a covered container to save even more time. Canned pears shorten the prep and add just the right flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Chai Spice Blend
4 tsp. ground ginger
4 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 tsp. ground cloves
2 tsp. ground nutmeg
2 tsp. ground cardamom
1 tsp. ground black pepper
Smoothie
3 bananas, peeled and sliced
3 cups (24 oz.) nonfat vanilla yogurt
¾ cup lowfat milk
2 cans (15 oz. each) diced canned pears in extra light syrup, drained
5 tbsp. Chai Spice Blend
Steps
- For spice blend, combine all spices in spice grinder to mix well. Set aside, reserving ¾ teaspoon for topping.
- For smoothie, place banana slices in freezer for 30 minutes.
- In blender container, combine frozen banana slices, yogurt, milk, drained pears and chai spice blend; cover and blend until smooth.
- Pour smoothie into six 10-ounce glasses; garnish each with 1/8 teaspoon spice blend. Serve immediately.
Photo courtesy of Pacific Northwest Canned Pears