A green smoothie with spinach and apple is a nutritious and refreshing drink that’s perfect for starting your day or as a healthy snack. The spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, while the apple provides natural sweetness and a touch of fiber. Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious and healthful green smoothie:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh spinach (packed)
- 1 medium apple, cored and sliced (you can leave the skin on for added fiber)
- 1/2 banana (for added creaminess and sweetness)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla) or regular yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy such as almond, soy, or oat milk) or water
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A few ice cubes (optional, especially if you prefer a colder smoothie)
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients:
- Wash the spinach thoroughly.
- Core and slice the apple. There’s no need to peel it if you like extra fiber.
- Peel and slice the banana if using.
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Blend:
- In a blender, combine the spinach, apple, banana, Greek yogurt (if using), and milk (or water).
- Blend on high until smooth. If the smoothie is too thick, you can add more milk or water to reach your desired consistency. For a colder smoothie, add a few ice cubes and blend again.
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Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding honey or maple syrup. If the smoothie is too green for your taste, you can balance it out with a bit more apple or banana.
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Serve:
- Pour the smoothie into glasses and serve immediately. You can garnish with a few slices of apple or a sprinkle of chia seeds if desired.
Tips:
- Smoothie Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk or water based on how thick or thin you like your smoothie.
- Flavor Variations: You can add a handful of other fruits like pineapple or berries for added flavor, or a spoonful of nut butter for extra protein.
- Nutrient Boosts: Add extras like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or a scoop of protein powder for an extra nutritional boost.
This green smoothie with spinach and apple is a great way to get a serving of greens while enjoying a naturally sweet and satisfying drink. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and health benefits!
