One of my favorite things about the summer is that it becomes a heck of a lot easier to consume cold food (because I’m one of those “it’s too hot for soup” or “it’s too cold for raw veggies” people). While this also means I’m particularly susceptible to late-night ice cream cones and froyo, it also means it’s officially SMOOTHIE SEASON! In other words, there are no more excuses not to nourish myself with this killer frozen blend of nutrients.
So, what’s the deal with green smoothies anyway? Why would I blend up and drink fruits and veggies when I could just eat a salad and a piece of fruit? I used to ask myself the same thing and it actually took a few years before I felt courageous enough to even try a green smoothie. And now I can’t believe I waited so long because they are such a fast, easy, delicious source of nutrients! Some green smoothies honestly taste more like dessert to me than a healthy meal or snack choice. (Say what!?)
This banana smoothie recipe is the one I give to friends and family who want to try their first green smoothie, but who are a little apprehensive about taking the leap. Green smoothies are such a great addition to a healthy lifestyle and, for some, just drinking one will make you feel like you’re getting healthy. Honestly, mindset is half the battle for a healthy lifestyle, so that’s no small thing! The spinach is the PERFECT power food for smoothies because the taste is easily masked by other tasty ingredients, such as a banana. Green smoothies that taste good are so important because who wants to continue consuming something that doesn’t taste good? Not me.
If you’re scared away by the chia seeds, don’t be! Chia seeds provide a great texture (there’s no real added taste) that helps you chew your smoothie. Chewing smoothies is actually really important because it starts the digestive process and helps your body understand that you’re consuming food. Additionally, chia seeds are high in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, so they really help pack this smoothie with a nutritional punch. If you add the full two tablespoons, you’ll also find that they’re quite filling and will make you full longer (which is personally always my goal, especially if I don’t have time to eat!).
I hope you enjoy this recipe, which is currently my all-time favorite for beginners and seasoned smoothie enthusiasts alike!
Banana Spinach Smoothie
Notes
Add more or less ice to achieve desired thickness. If you prefer, you can substitute for your milk of choice (dairy, cashew, coconut, etc). If you prefer more sweetness, add a tsp of honey.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana (diced)
- 2 cups spinach
- 1/4 cup old fashioned oats
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 3 Ice cubes
Instructions
- Add spinach, banana, oats, chia seeds, ice cubes, and almond milk into blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour smoothie into your favorite glass.
- (Optional): Garnish with a sprinkle of oats.
Nutrition Facts
Banana Spinach Smoothie
Serves: 1 16 oz glass
Amount Per Serving: 1
|
||
---|---|---|
Calories | 364 | |
% Daily Value* | ||
Total Fat | 0 | |
Saturated Fat | 0 | |
Trans Fat | ||
Cholesterol | 0 | |
Sodium | 0 | |
Total Carbohydrate | 0 | |
Dietary Fiber | 0 | |
Sugars | ||
Protein |
Vitamin A | Vitamin C | |
Calcium | Iron |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Chasing the Taste
Did you make this recipe? I would love to hear how to went for you! Share in the comments or tag @chasingthetaste on Instagram so I can see your beautiful creation!
Tania says
first of all, congrats on your first post!!! I am Abrams new blogger myself and I feel lost haha. This is an awesome post to start with. Second, I have never had the courage to try a green smoothie. My grandpa used to always mix, celery, spinach, pineapple and something else I don’t remember and I would think: iick!!!! Haha. Now I am a grown up, I have to try them.
CarolynRose says
Thank you, Tania! Celery, spinach, and pineapple sound like they would make for a very yummy smoothie. I actually haven’t tried celery in a smoothie yet, so you’ve inspired me to try. 🙂 Let me know when you do end up trying the green smoothie–I’d love to hear how it goes!
Johanna Grange says
This looks delicious! Totally adding this recipe to my arsenal!
CarolynRose says
Thank you, Johanna. I would love to hear what you think of it if you do make it!