Green smoothies and green juices have gained popularity over the last few years. And it’s for good reason! Greens contain vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and numerous other vitamins. Plus they are packed with potassium, calcium, fiber, antioxidants, iron, and various other minerals.
In general, greens are known to:
- renew and refresh skin
- boost immunity
- reduce the risk of cancer
- prevent vision loss
- keep your heart healthy
- reduce inflammatory
- promote eye health
- and improve brain functioning.
But there are more greens than just spinach or kale! Expand your horizons with nearly any green veggie.
Beet greens and swiss chard are excellent options available at most grocery stores.
Broccoli leaves and carrot greens are also good choices but may be more difficult to find.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, experiment with different varieties of lettuce such as romaine, arugula or dandelion greens.
Play around with bok choy, turnip greens, collard greens, zucchini or broccoli.
Essentially any green veggie can be added to a smoothie! They may not always taste as you expect, so pair the greens with coordinating ingredients such as tropical fruits, nut milks, or earthy seeds.
Maintain a good balance between your greens and your fruits. Too many greens will overpower your smoothie and cause it to be too bitter, bland or earthy. If this happens, add a little more fruit for the sugar and refreshing flavors.
Green Smoothie
This classic green smoothie is the perfect balance of earthy nutrient-dense greens and refreshing vitamin-rich fruits. Perfect for a quick morning breakfast, snack with your kids, or post-workout pick-me-up.
Ingredients
- 1 banana
- ¾ cup almond milk, unsweetened
- ½ cup frozen blueberries
- ½ cup frozen mixed fruit
- ¼ cup of vanilla
- 2 cups kale
- 2 cups spinach
- 1-2 cups of Swiss chard, beet greens, broccoli leaves, or carrot greens , (either one green, or a mixture of each)
- 1 Tablespoon flax seeds
- q tsp 1 tsp spirulina, Optional
Instructions
- Add the seeds, almond milk and yogurt to the blender.
- Next add in the greens.
- Add the frozen fruit.
- Blend on high for 30 seconds or until all ingredients are combined.
