Hey there! Looking for a simple and healthy smoothie recipe that fits into your busy life? Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite green smoothie recipes that not only tastes amazing but is packed with nutrients to keep you energized throughout the day. Plus, I’ll share how you can freeze some of the ingredients for easy meal prep! Ready to dive in?
Green Power Smoothie Recipe
This healthy smoothie recipe is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a perfect option for breakfast or a post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ½ avocado
- ½ banana
- ½ cup frozen pineapple chunks
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional, but adds extra protein)
- Ice cubes (optional)
Nutritional Breakdown (Macros):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 15g (with protein powder)
- Carbs: 32g
- Fiber: 12g
- Fat: 15g
Ingredient Benefits
1. Spinach
Spinach is a nutrient powerhouse! It’s rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, which help with bone health and overall energy levels. Plus, it’s low in calories and full of fiber.
2. Avocado
Avocados provide healthy fats that keep you fuller longer. They’re also packed with potassium, which is great for muscle function, and fiber for digestive health.
3. Banana
Bananas are a great source of natural sugars to fuel your body, as well as potassium, which helps maintain proper fluid balance. Plus, they add a nice creaminess to the smoothie.
4. Pineapple
Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps with digestion and reduces inflammation. It’s also a sweet way to balance the flavors of your smoothie.
5. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are tiny but mighty! They’re full of omega-3s, which support heart health, and add a boost of fiber to keep you satisfied.
6. Protein Powder (Optional)
Adding protein powder helps repair and build muscle, making this smoothie perfect for post-workout recovery. It also helps balance the meal if you’re looking to increase your protein intake. I use the NurishID shakes for extra protein and flavor.
Meal Prep Tip: Freezing Smoothie Ingredients
To make your morning routine even easier, you can freeze most of these ingredients in advance. Here’s how:
- Banana: Peel and slice the banana, then freeze the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for easy use.
- Spinach: Spinach can be frozen raw! Simply wash it, pat it dry, and toss it into a freezer-safe bag. You can add it straight to the blender without defrosting.
- Pineapple: Already using frozen pineapple? Great! If not, you can freeze fresh pineapple chunks the same way as bananas—just lay them out on a baking sheet first to avoid clumping.
- Avocado: Did you know you can freeze avocado? Scoop out the flesh, mash it slightly, and store it in a freezer bag. Just add it to your blender when you’re ready to make your smoothie.
- Chia Seeds & Protein Powder: These dry ingredients don’t need to be frozen, but you can portion them out in small bags for even faster smoothie assembly.
The IDEATECH Reusable Food Storage Bags Washable, 20Pack Reusable Freezer Bags are greater for freezer to smoothie storage.
For other meal prepping tips. Read Practical Tips for a Healthy Travel Lunch: On-the-Go Meal Prep.
Why This Smoothie is a Game-Changer
This green smoothie is ideal for a busy lifestyle, especially if you’re into meal prepping. Freezing the ingredients ahead of time means you can throw everything into the blender in the morning and be out the door in minutes. It’s nutritious, easy to make, and keeps you feeling full and energized.
Want to try it? Let me know what you think in the comments below, or share your favorite smoothie ingredient swaps!
Here’s to a healthier, energized you!
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