All of Vitamix’s latest models come with preset program modes in addition to manual controls. You can select a program, and then the machine will automatically move through a set of speeds designed for that type of blend. I figured some people would be curious to see exactly what the programs do, so I recorded all eleven program sequences on an X5. You might learn a bit about Vitamix’s recommended blending technique (TLDR: turn up to max speed for almost everything!), and it might also help decide between the Ascent X4 and X5 models, whose only difference is 5 extra programs on the X5. Continue Reading →
Vitamix’s 2024 Holiday Shopping season has begun! Almost everything is on sale through early January, but there are deeper discounts for “Cyber Weekend.” Vitamix merged Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and pushed the start date up to Tuesday, November 26th. If you’re thinking about buying a Vitamix, this is the best time of year to do it!
The Ascent X Series is Vitamix’s biggest new blender release since the original Ascent Series in 2016. I do not think it is an absolute game changer, but it brings some new features and a styling refresh. I believe the features are aligned with how users have been using their machines. Continue Reading →
Vitamix just released a Food Processor Attachment for their Smart Blenders (Ascent and Venturist Series). In my opinion, this is their most interesting new product since I started this site in 2012, and maybe even since they released the predecessor of the 5200 back in the early 90s. Vitamix sent one to me for review, and I’m excited to share my thoughts. (My opinions here are fully independent from Vitamix, though I do receive a commission if you order via one of my links.) Continue Reading →
Vitamix just released a new stainless steel container. They previously used metal containers, but stopped making them in the early 1990s. Now metal is back and updated for 2020! Vitamix sent me one to review. If you order via a JoyofBlending link, I get a commission. Thanks! Continue Reading →
When I first heard about non-basil pesto I was pretty skeptical. I mean, basil pesto is so good, why mess with it? Then I saw a Chris Morocco Bon Appétit video and he convinced me to try it. The color is impressive—it doesn’t lose its bright green the way basil pesto does. The flavor is surprisingly good, and it didn’t leave me wishing it had basil. I think it’s a worthy addition to the rotation for the cool months when basil isn’t readily available, so give it a try! Continue Reading →
There are tons of different ways to make gazpacho, and watermelon is an interesting addition. When I first heard about it I was skeptical, but I actually really liked it. Red onion balances the sweetness, and the watermelon doesn’t dominate too much. I was afraid it would be like a tomato agua fresca, but this recipe comes out solidly soup-like. Refreshing too! Continue Reading →
I know many people who are following low-sugar diets. While smoothies can pack tons of nutrients, they also usually come with plenty of sugar. I generally think the sugar in my smoothies is offset by all the fiber and nutrients, but I wanted to see what I could do for the low-sugar folks. I designed this smoothie to be a filling meal with ample fat and protein. It is bright and energizing—perfect for a summer morning. Continue Reading →
There are many types of halva, but, when I think of halva, I think of the fudge-like sesame confection. I combined sesame seeds with cooked sweet potato for this satisfying smoothie. The fat and protein from the sesame seeds and the bulk from the sweet potato makes it more filling than an all-fruit smoothie. Continue Reading →
I had a big bag of dried cherries and was playing around with different uses for them, and I was surprised at how tasty these bars are. I started with my bare-bones larabar recipe, added cherries instead of dates, and then added chia seeds and rolled oats. Continue Reading →