Superfood Green Detox Smoothie Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a deliciously refreshing way to pack in my greens and start my day feeling energized and healthy. Plus, the creamy avocado and zingy ginger make it taste like a treat, even though it’s secretly a nutrient powerhouse!

My Superfood Green Detox Smoothie is all I need to kick-start my day. Spinach and kale make a nourishing base—my blend is packed with vitamins, as well as minerals like iron and potassium.

I add a tiny green apple and half an avocado for a creamy texture. Coconut water and lemon juice work together to provide a flavor that’s both hydrating and invigorating.

Chia seeds and ginger make a healthy powerhouse of a smoothie—full of fiber, protein, and good-for-you stuff.

Ingredients

Spinach:
Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, it is excellent for maintaining bone health.

Kale:
High in fiber and antioxidants, promotes digestion and detoxification.

Green Apple:
Delivers fiber and sweetness.

Assists in weight management.

Cucumber:
It is perfect for detoxing, being low in calories and high in water content.

Coconut Water:
Electrolytes that are natural assist in the hydration process and in maintaining the balance of minerals.

Chia Seeds:
Supports heart health; packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

Lemon Juice:
Contains high amounts of vitamin C and contributes a bold, zesty flavor.

Ginger:
Fighting inflammation, helping digestion, and lending a spicy kick.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup kale leaves, stems removed
• 1 small green apple, cored and chopped
• 1/2 cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup coconut water
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 ripe avocado
• 5-6 ice cubes

Instructions

1. Start by washing the spinach and kale leaves very well under cold running water to remove all dirt and any impurities.

2. In a blender, blend the spinach and kale leaves together.

3. Core and chop the granny smith apple, then add it to the blender.

4. Trim the ends from the cucumber, and cut it in half lengthwise. Then slice it and add it to the blender.

5. The coconut water should be poured into the blender on top of the greens and apple.

6. To the blender, add the chia seeds, fresh lemon juice, and grated ginger.

7. Halve the ripe avocado, take out the pit, and scoop out half of the flesh into the blender.

8. The blender requires a refreshing chill, so fill it with 5-6 ice cubes.

9. Affix the cap to the blender and mix the contents at top speed until they are homogenous and creamy.

10. Sample the smoothie and fine-tune the thickness with additional coconut water, if necessary. Pour into a glass and savor the tropical delight.

Equipment Needed

1. Blender
2. Cutting board
3. Chef’s knife
4. Measuring cups
5. Measuring spoons
6. Spoon (for scooping avocado)
7. Peeler (optional, for cucumber)
8. Grater (for ginger)
9. Glass (for serving the smoothie)

FAQ

• What are the health benefits of this Superfood Green Detox Smoothie?This smoothie is brimming with vitamins. Spinach and kale have an abundance of vitamins A, C, and K, and avocado is a powerhouse of healthy fats. Apple and cucumber give you a fiber boost, and we all know how important that is for keeping things moving. Lastly, ginger serves up some serious anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Can I replace kale with another leafy green?Certainly! If you favor other leafy greens, you can substitute those for kale, such as Swiss chard or collard greens.
• Is there a substitute for coconut water?You may substitute plain water or almond milk for coconut water, but be aware that the flavor and texture may vary.
• How do I store leftovers?The optimal time to enjoy it is freshly made, but any leftover portions can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Be sure to shake everything around well before you partake again.
• Can I add protein powder to this smoothie?Certainly! Putting a scoop of your preferred protein powder in it can boost the nutrition and make it more satiety-inducing.
• Is this smoothie suitable for a vegan diet?Indeed, every ingredient in this recipe is derived from plants, making it appropriate for a vegan dietary pattern.

Substitutions and Variations

Leaves of spinach: Substitute with 1 cup of Swiss chard or 1 cup of collard greens.
If you do not have kale leaves, you can use one of two alternatives:

1/2 cup of arugula
or
1/2 cup of baby bok choy
Green apple: Swap with 1 small pear or 1/2 cup of pineapple chunks.
Coconut water: Replace it with 1/2 cup of almond milk or 1/2 cup of cooled green tea.
Banana: If you want a creamy texture, substitute with half of an avocado. If you want to maintain the creamy texture but don’t want to use avocado, substitute with a quarter of a cup of Greek yogurt.

Pro Tips

1. Prep the Ingredients Efficiently Prepping the kale by removing stems and washing the greens thoroughly can be done in advance. Store them in a sealed container or bag in the fridge to keep them fresh and save time when you’re ready to blend.

2. Maximize Nutrient Absorption Before blending, let the mix of spinach, kale, and chia seeds sit for about 5 minutes. This can help the chia seeds begin to absorb liquid, improving the texture and increasing nutrient absorption.

3. Enhance Flavor Balance If the smoothie is too tart from the green apple or lemon juice, consider adding a small amount of honey or agave syrup to balance the flavors. This can enhance the sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors.

4. Chilling Effect For an extra refreshing smoothie, freeze the chopped apple and cucumber slices beforehand. This helps make the smoothie colder without watering it down, especially if you prefer a thicker consistency.

5. Boost the Creaminess Adding a small spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of unsweetened almond milk can enhance the creaminess without altering the taste significantly, making the smoothie more satisfying and protein-rich.