Healthy Green Pineapple Banana Spinach Smoothie Recipe
This smoothie recipe is my go-to because it’s a delicious way to pack in greens without even noticing, thanks to the sweet and tropical flavors from the pineapple and banana. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up, keeping me energized and refreshed, whether I’m rushing out the door or winding down after a workout.
A nutrient-charged smoothie is how I prefer to launch my day. The blends in my blender-first life feature the vitamins, all of them, from superfood spinach, the smoothest of ripe bananas, and the pineapple to end all pineapples, all spun together with almond milk that could not be sweeter.
Almonda. These are the most superb smoothie-making seeds, I believe.
Ingredients
Spinach contains lots of iron and is rich in vitamins A and C.
That makes it an excellent green for detoxing and energizing.
Milk from almonds: A calcium source that’s low in calories and free of dairy; it has a creamy texture.
Chunks of pineapple: contain a lot of vitamin C and the enzyme bromelain; they provide not just sweetness but also an edge of acidity.
Banana: An excellent source of potassium, it naturally sweetens and thickens a smoothie.
Chia Seeds: Filled with omega-3s, fiber, and protein; fosters good digestion and a sense of fullness.
Honey/Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners; improve taste if desired without using refined sugar.
Ingredient Quantities
- 1 cup fresh spinach, packed
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or frozen
- 1 banana, ripe
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 cup ice cubes (optional, for a thicker smoothie)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
Instructions
1. Make sure the fresh spinach is clean by washing it thoroughly in cold water. Then dry it, so it’s not wet when you cook with it.
2. Add the unflavored almond milk to a powerful blender.
3. In the blender, combine the almond milk with the packed spinach.
4. Put the pineapple chunks in the blender, on top of the spinach.
5. Remove the peel from the ripe banana, then cut the fruit into smaller pieces. You can do this by breaking it into hand-sized sections. After that, toss the banana bits into the blender.
6. Dust the chia seeds over the other ingredients in the blender.
7. To make a smoothie with a thicker consistency, add the ice cubes to the blender.
8. Should you want more sweetness, drench in the honey or maple syrup.
9. Place the blender lid on securely and blend the mixture at high speed until it achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
10. Pour the smoothie into a glass and savor immediately for the freshest taste.
Equipment Needed
1. Colander or salad spinner (for washing and drying spinach)
2. Blender
3. Measuring cup
4. Measuring spoon
5. Knife (for cutting banana)
6. Glass (for serving the smoothie)
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of milk instead of almond milk?Certainly! Cow’s milk, soy milk, or oat milk can be used in place of almond milk.
- Is it necessary to add honey or maple syrup?The smoothie derives its sweetness from the banana and pineapple, which makes it naturally sweet. However, if you desire more sweetness, feel free to add honey or maple syrup.
- What are the benefits of adding chia seeds?Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein are abundant in chia seeds. When you add them to your smoothie, you increase its nutritional value.
- Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?The optimal way to enjoy it is fresh; however, it can be stored in the refrigerator for 24 hours max. Shake well before consuming.
- Is it okay to use frozen spinach?Certainly, you can use frozen spinach; however, for optimal taste and texture, fresh spinach is advised.
- What can I use instead of banana as a thickener?Avocado or a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt can serve as alternative thickeners.
- How can I make this smoothie more filling?Include a scoop of protein powder or a tablespoon of nut butter to up the satisfaction.
Substitutions and Variations
Kale or Swiss chard can take the place of fresh spinach.
Almond milk, unsweetened: Use oat milk or coconut water instead.
Chunks of pineapple: substitute mango or peaches.
Avocado: Substitute for banana. For the same creaminess but without the sweetness.
Chia seeds: substitute flaxseeds or hemp hearts for a similar nutritional boost.
Pro Tips
1. Pre-soak Chia Seeds: To enhance the nutritional benefits and improve texture, soak the chia seeds in a small amount of almond milk for about 10 minutes before adding them to the blender. This will help them blend more smoothly into the smoothie.
2. Frozen Fruit for Thickness: Instead of adding ice cubes, you can use frozen pineapple chunks or a frozen banana to thicken the smoothie without diluting the flavor. This will give you a creamier consistency.
3. Layer Ingredients Strategically: Start by layering the liquid first, followed by soft ingredients like the banana and spinach, and then firmer ingredients like the pineapple chunks and chia seeds. This helps the blender work more efficiently and reduces blending time.
4. Enhance Flavor with Extras: Consider adding a small piece of fresh ginger or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor profile. Both add a fresh zing and complement the sweetness of the fruit.
5. Blend in Stages: For the smoothest texture, blend the spinach and almond milk together first until completely smooth, then add the rest of the ingredients. This ensures tougher greens are sufficiently broken down before combining with other elements.
Healthy Green Pineapple Banana Spinach Smoothie Recipe
My favorite Healthy Green Pineapple Banana Spinach Smoothie Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Colander or salad spinner (for washing and drying spinach)
2. Blender
3. Measuring cup
4. Measuring spoon
5. Knife (for cutting banana)
6. Glass (for serving the smoothie)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, packed
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or frozen
- 1 banana, ripe
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 cup ice cubes (optional, for a thicker smoothie)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
Instructions:
1. Make sure the fresh spinach is clean by washing it thoroughly in cold water. Then dry it, so it’s not wet when you cook with it.
2. Add the unflavored almond milk to a powerful blender.
3. In the blender, combine the almond milk with the packed spinach.
4. Put the pineapple chunks in the blender, on top of the spinach.
5. Remove the peel from the ripe banana, then cut the fruit into smaller pieces. You can do this by breaking it into hand-sized sections. After that, toss the banana bits into the blender.
6. Dust the chia seeds over the other ingredients in the blender.
7. To make a smoothie with a thicker consistency, add the ice cubes to the blender.
8. Should you want more sweetness, drench in the honey or maple syrup.
9. Place the blender lid on securely and blend the mixture at high speed until it achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
10. Pour the smoothie into a glass and savor immediately for the freshest taste.