Spinach Pineapple Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, tightly packed
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or frozen)
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup coconut water
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tbsp flax seeds
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/2 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 tsp matcha powder (optional for a boost of flavor and antioxidants)
- 1 cup crushed ice
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Difficulty Level
- Easy
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients:
- Wash the spinach and cucumber thoroughly.
- Peel and slice the banana.
- Peel and grate a small piece of fresh ginger.
- Blend the Base Ingredients:
- In a high-speed blender, add the spinach, pineapple chunks, banana, cucumber, coconut water, Greek yogurt, flax seeds, lime juice, grated ginger, and matcha powder (if using).
- Blend to Perfection:
- Start blending on low speed, gradually increasing to high speed until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the crushed ice and blend again until the ice is fully incorporated and the smoothie has a thick, creamy texture.
- Check Consistency:
- If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more coconut water and blend again. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a small handful of frozen pineapple chunks and blend again.
- Serve Immediately:
- Pour the smoothie into two glasses.
Tips for Perfect Texture and Consistency
- Use Frozen Pineapple: Using frozen pineapple chunks can enhance the smoothie’s chill and thickness without needing too much ice.
- Blend in Stages: Blend the spinach with the liquid first to ensure it’s fully broken down before adding the other ingredients.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the smoothie before serving and add a small amount of honey or agave syrup if needed for additional sweetness.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Garnish with Fresh Ingredients: Top each smoothie with a slice of pineapple, a sprinkle of flax seeds, and a mint leaf for a visually appealing presentation.
- Smoothie Bowl: Pour the smoothie into bowls and top with granola, fresh fruit slices, coconut flakes, and a drizzle of honey for a more substantial meal.
- Add a Tropical Twist: Serve with a side of coconut chips or a small serving of mango salsa to complement the tropical flavors.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative such as coconut or almond yogurt.
- Nut-Free: Ensure that all ingredients, including the yogurt and coconut water, are nut-free.
- Low-Sugar: Omit the banana and use a small green apple instead for a less sweet option.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to increase the protein content, especially if having the smoothie post-workout.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative as mentioned above.
- Vegan: Use both the dairy-free yogurt alternative and agave syrup instead of honey.