Smoothies not only quench thirst, but they can stand in for a meal, especially when they're packed with fruits, vegetables or protein-rich binders. Most blenders are large enough to make at least three or four servings of smoothies, so it makes sense to make them ahead of time when you can. Once blended, you can enjoy a refrigerated smoothie for about a day.

In most cases, you can make smoothies ahead and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours or pack them in an insulated container and take them with you. There are a few exceptions, though. Use smoothies made with ice cubes immediately, rather than storing them. As the ice cubes melt, the fruit puree separates from the water, leaving a soggy, uninspiring mess. Sometimes fruits that turn brown can discolor a smoothie that's been made ahead of time. Bananas, in particular, have this tendency. Pair them with brightly colored fruits like strawberries, or greens, such as kale, to keep the color bright.

Smoothies are considered a health food, and in most cases, they are. But remember to follow good food hygiene as you make them. Always wash fresh fruit and vegetables and peel them when possible. Vegetables and fruits can carry pathogens, such as the E.coli bacteria. Don't use raw, unpasteurized eggs in smoothies because of the risk of salmonella food poisoning, and always refrigerate smoothies immediately. Pack them in an insulated thermos for up to 12 hours. Be especially vigilant with smoothies that contain dairy products, such as yogurt and milk, since these foods are highly perishable.

Some smoothie recipes store better than others so your best bet is simply to experiment. If a smoothie separates, shake it or throw it in the blender before drinking it. Try adding binders, such as coconut milk, almond milk, peanut butter or carob, to your smoothie to create a creamy texture. You can also add flavorings, such as honey, vanilla or almond extract. Be sure to use real vanilla and almond extract, though, since imitations can impart a bitter flavor that becomes more pronounced as the smoothie sits in the fridge.

Smoothies sometimes require quite a bit of prep work in the form of peeling and chopping fruits and vegetables. If you lack time in the morning to conquer this task, try prepping and freezing the ingredients ahead of time. Chop fruits and vegetables into one-inch cubes and pack them in heavy-duty plastic bags. Pack enough in each bag for one batch of smoothies. Label the smoothies, store them in the freezer and use them within one month for best quality. The freezer must be kept at zero degrees Fahrenheit or colder to adhere to USDA food safety guidelines.