05 Jun Dissecting the Perfect Smoothie: What’s in a Morning Sun?

Our new storefront, Living Produce Aisle, is the very first in its kind in the entire world.
We grow fresh, healthy microgreens, vegetables, and herbs right at the space using Urban Cultivators. Those live greens are then sold by the flat, or, added to our salads or smoothies.
It’s an incredibly unique concept in that we’re growing the very food we’re selling. Not only is this never-before-heard-of concept appealing, though, but these live greens are also great for you.
A crowd favorite is the Morning Sun—a refreshing drink that’s perfect to start your day with.
The sweet but tart smoothie has been a hit since the store opening.
Here’s what goes into LPA’s Morning Sun smoothie:

Arugula

Arugula needs no introduction; it’s as ubiquitous as lettuce nowadays!
This mildly peppery plant is low in calories but packs a punch in flavor. It’s a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, and folic acid.
Also containing high levels of minerals like iron and copper, it’s one of the best vegetables to have in your diet.

Sunflower

Sure, they grow into beautiful, happy, feel-good flowers, but in its micro form, sunflower really packs a punch in nutritional content.
Sunflower micros are loaded with protein, making up to 25% of its content! They’re rich in vitamin B and hormone-balancing zinc, as well as iron and chlorophyll.
Sweet in flavor and a hearty texture, they’re fantastic in the Morning Sun.

Strawberries

It’s true what they say: berries really are good for you. Strawberries, in particular, are extremely high in antioxidants, which help protect you against cancer.
They’re also loaded with vitamins—vitamin C in particular—and dietary fibre, but also low calorie. And, it has the ability to lower your cholesterol thanks to its dense potassium content.
Nothing really compares to that vibrant red color strawberries bring; that’s what makes the Morning Sun such a lovely pastel pink.

Bananas

Easy to eat and vibrant in color, bananas aren’t just good for a quick afternoon snack.
Loaded with potassium, it’s a great pre- or post-workout food that can also help sustain your blood sugar. Also thanks to potassium, they’re able to help lower blood pressure, and even protect against heart diseases
It’s also got high levels of tryptophan, which is converted by our bodies into serotonin, the neurotransmitter responsible for positive moods. This suggests that bananas can actually aid with low moods.

Pineapple

Have you had pineapple juice? Upon your first couple of sips, you’re transported to a tropical island far away from your worries. Pineapple is incredibly sweet and playfully tart, and a great addition to any smoothie.
Like strawberries, pineapple is also rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and manganese. If you have arthritis, pineapple has anti-inflammatory properties that can help keep inflammation at bay, while also giving strength to the bones.

Aloe vera juice

Aloe vera juice is slowly becoming more and more popular in North America, and for good reason. Why?
Studies have shown that this juice can have an incredible effect on your skin thanks to its abundance in vitamins B, C, E, and folic acid, all of which strengthen your immune system and therefore protect your skin.

The Morning Sun is really easy to make. Pour half a cup each of the juices into a blender, a handful of arugula and sunflower micros, half a cup of frozen strawberries, one frozen banana, then hit blend.
Not sure if you’ll enjoy it? This customer certainly did:

Try the Morning Sun at Living Produce Aisle, located at 1168 Hamilton Street in Yaletown, Vancouver, or at home!
What’s your favorite smoothie recipe? Let us know in the comments section!