Well-balanced and nutrient-packed.
Smoothies make for a great well-balanced, nutrient-packed, and nourishing meal or snack. When made right they provide an adequate source of carbs, proteins, fats and fiber with not a lot of sugar and perfect to enjoy as a healthy breakfast or as an afternoon snack. This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.
A green smoothie you’ll love!
Today, I’m sharing with you the base of my go-to green smoothie recipe, one I make often. I love that you can keep it simple and make it just as the recipe is written OR give it even more of a nutrient and flavor boost with additional ingredients of your choosing – I share ideas below. If you’re new to green smoothies, this one is for you as it’s not so “green”. The banana adds a nice subtle sweetness which makes for a perfect beginner green smoothie! It always turns out a beautiful green color, too.
Five simple ingredients.
Banana – don’t fear the banana, folks…it adds the right amount of sweetness and provides a host of nutritional benefits. Bananas are rich in potassium, an electrolyte that promotes healthy blood pressure and electrolyte balance. In addition, bananas are a good source of insoluble fiber which promotes digestion and regularity. They’re a good source of soluble fiber too, which increases satiety (feeling of fullness).Avocado – the perfect source of healthy fat to add to your smoothie and adds a delicious creaminess. Avocados are one of our favorite sources of fats. They’re a great source of fiber and potassium, amongst many other nutrients, as well as anti-inflammatory properties.Greens of choice – Leafy greens are a nutrient dense food and one that you should eat everyday. Rich in antioxidants, fiber and loaded with nutrients. When blended, juiced or cooked the nutrients become more absorbable when compared to eating raw so adding spinach to smoothies is a perfect way to take full advantage of the nutritional benefits.Milk – Unsweetened almond, coconut or cashew milk is what I recommend. They’re all dairy free options that add a nice and subtle flavor to the smoothie. One thing to look out for is the added sugars, so be sure to purchase unsweetened nut milks or you can simply make your own.Protein Powder – not all protein powder is created equal. I suggest a protein powder that is natural and organic and free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors as well as free from soy and gluten. Most importantly, one that you can tolerate. If you choose a whey protein, I’d suggest one that’s made from grass-fed cows milk. Collagen Peptides (such as Primal Kitchen) also makes for a great option for protein. Collagen is known to provide a number of benefits including joint support, muscle repair & growth, cell growth, and healthy hair & skin. A plant-based protein would be another option.
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So there you have it, my 5-ingredient go-to green smoothie! This is the base of almost every smoothie I make.
For an added boost of flavor and nutrients you could add ingredients such as:
Various fruits and veggies (berries, mango, orange, pineapple, cauliflower, carrots, zucchini, etc.)GingerTurmericMatchaCacaoHemp hearts, chia seed and flax seedsBrazil nuts and walnutsNut buttersMaca powderProbiotic powderand the list goes on…..
Are you ready to give this Go-to Green Smoothie a try?
Make one smoothie for now and one to enjoy later by storing a serving in a mason jar with a lid for up to 24 hours.
What are your favorite Smoothie ingredients? Comment below!
This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.