Best Spinach Smoothie

I find smoothies ideal to start the day, and this wholesome, nutritious spinach smoothie gives me a boost of energy and a sense of satisfaction that I’ve already had part of my daily dose of greens. Made with plant-based milk, tropical fruits, lime juice, and orange juice, you can not taste the spinach, which is a good selling point when serving it to kids.

Sometimes our mornings look very hectic, and I usually like to plan ahead and add all the ingredients to the blender, except the juice and the milk, and store them in the fridge. In the morning, I just blend everything and serve it with my made-in-advance strawberry chia seed pudding or this protein-loaded chia cheesecake pudding. This is a great make-ahead breakfast that also packs easily for on-the-go eating.

This spinach smoothie is so versatile and can be modified in multiple ways. It has a nice texture and is perfectly sweet on its own without any added sugar. The frozen tropical fruits mix gives it a nice, refreshing taste and aroma. Also, I like to add some protein powder, cottage cheese, or Greek yogurt to it for an even higher protein boost. To keep it healthy and packed with vitamins, I use organic spinach, almond milk, and fruits. This will surely keep our immune system top-notch and in check. Whether you like yours in the morning, before a workout, or as a snack, this refreshing smoothie is guaranteed to make you feel good.

Why you will love this recipe 

• Breakfast or snack on the go: I can enjoy one of these as I go about my day, doing chores inside or outside the house. If I double or triple the recipe, I can easily make one for the whole family. 
• It is so fast: This recipe takes me about 10 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for a quick after-school snack or post-workout refreshment.
• Healthy and nutritious: Made with fruits, vegetables, protein powder, and no added sugar, this is a wholesome drink that keeps me full for hours. The protein powder and milk keep me going. 
• The kids love it: Believe it or not, it doesn’t taste like spinach at all. If it is made to the right specifications, there is no spinach flavor. All you can taste is a subtle tropical flavor from the orange and lime juice, along with other fruits that are added.  

What you will need

• Vegetables: I use 3 cups of fresh organic spinach.
• Fruits: The frozen banana makes it thick, creamy, and sweet without watering it down as ice cubes would. I also add frozen tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and papaya for more natural sweetness and a cold, thick consistency. I need one lime to get zest and juice for a refreshing, tangy flavor.
• Wet ingredients: Sugar-free orange juice provides natural sweetness and tanginess without any added sugars. It also has plenty of vitamin C to help iron absorption from the spinach. Unsweetened almond milk makes the smoothie creamier without adding sugar or dairy. 
• Dry ingredients: Protein powder turns this smoothie into a complete meal by boosting satiety without adding carbs. 
• Sweetener: To make this smoothie sweeter, I add a bit of honey or maple syrup. 

How to make 

Prep the fruits and vegetables: First, I prep the fruits and spinach, zesting the lime and washing the spinach. 

Blend the ingredients: Then I add it all to the blender and mix until smooth. I start with the milk and spinach to make sure the leaves get completely pulverized before adding any more ingredients. 

Pour and serve: After it is smooth and creamy, I pour it into glasses and serve.

Expert tip

Freezer bag smoothies

Want to make freezer-bag smoothies that are ready anytime with just milk and juice? I like to freeze some spinach and fruits in freezer bags for times when I just want to whip up a smoothie in a hurry. It only takes me a minute to pour it into a blender with some milk, orange juice, and a bit of protein powder. Then, I have a power-packed breakfast or snack to go in less than 10 minutes. 

More tips to consider:

• Be sure to wash the fruits and vegetables well before adding them to the smoothie.
• Try the prewashed baby spinach for an easier smoothie and milder flavor if this is your first time. If you have leftovers, they are good for salads or sandwiches, or they can be frozen.
• Speaking of freezing, be sure to freeze the bananas after they turn slightly brown, so they are nice and sweet. 
• For a creamier smoothie, use full-fat coconut milk instead of almond milk.
• Use a high-powered blender or food processor for this recipe. And start with the liquid and greens first to make sure all the leafy parts get pulverized.

Recipe variations and add-ins:

• Other fruits: I sometimes add frozen blueberries, strawberries, peaches, or mandarin oranges for extra flavor and vitamins.
• Nut butter: I like to add peanut butter to mine, but almond or cashew butter works well too. Extra fat from nut butter helps keep you satisfied, so you’re not hungry again five minutes later. 
• Avocado: Another kind of fat that is creamy and healthy is avocado. Cut it into chunks and pop it into the blender with the rest of the ingredients for a more filling smoothie. 
• Chia Seeds: These little wonders thicken the smoothie by absorbing liquids and add Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, and minerals. They will also help keep you full longer.
• Chocolate: As a chocolate lover, I add it to just about everything. A bit of cocoa powder gives this smoothie a delightful chocolatey taste that my kids and I love. 

Serving suggestions:

These smoothies make a great snack or light breakfast, with plenty of fruits and veggies when I add protein powder. If I add nut butter, it can be even heartier and more fulfilling. I like to keep it light, with not too much extra, when I am going to the gym to work out. I often have it with this sweet-and-tangy strawberry spinach salad after my workout. It really replenishes the energy I use and gives me a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, too. 

If I want to serve these smoothies for breakfast, I like to have them with something savory like this homemade omelet. It is my all-time favorite with juicy ham, gooey cheese, fluffy eggs, and crisp vegetables. It is really easy to make in just 30 minutes. My corned beef hash is scrumptious and simple to make, too, with corned beef, potatoes, and spices. I also like to pack the smoothie on the go with these easy air fryer hard-boiled eggs for a hearty morning meal!

How to store leftovers:

• Refrigerate: These smoothies are best consumed right away, but can be saved in the fridge for 24 hours in a sealed container.   
• Freezing: I freeze mine in storage baggies for up to 3 months. 
• Defrost: I thaw my frozen smoothies overnight in the fridge for the best flavor and texture.  

Frequently asked questions

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