Green Smoothie with Spinach and Banana
A creamy, refreshing green smoothie that tastes like a tropical treat while packing a full serving of leafy greens. Ripe banana brings natural sweetness and a velvety texture, perfectly balancing the mild earthiness of fresh spinach. Quick to whip up for breakfast or a post-workout boost.
For 2 servings
- prep
Gather and prep all ingredients.
1.Peel the bananas and break them into a few chunks.2.Wash the spinach leaves if not using pre-washed baby spinach.3.Measure out the milk, yogurt, honey, and ice cubes. - mix
Layer ingredients in the blender for the smoothest blend.
1.Pour the milk and yogurt into the blender first to prevent sticking.2.Add the spinach leaves on top of the liquids.3.Add the banana chunks, honey, and ice cubes on top.TIPLayering liquids first helps the blades catch the greens and fruit more easily. - mix · ~1 min
Blend until silky smooth.
1.Start the blender on low speed and gradually increase to high.2.Blend for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth and no spinach flecks remain.3.Stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula if needed, then blend another 15 seconds. - mix
Check consistency and adjust.
If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more milk and blend for 10 seconds. If too thin, add a few more ice cubes or half a banana and blend again.
TIPThe smoothie will thicken slightly as it sits because the banana and yogurt set up. - serve
Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a ripe banana with brown spots for maximum natural sweetness and creaminess.
- 2Freeze the banana chunks beforehand for an extra-thick, frosty smoothie without diluting.
- 3Add the spinach in two batches if your blender jar is small, blending each batch fully.
- 4Blend on low then high to prevent the blades from cavitating on the ice cubes.
- 5Pour into a glass and enjoy within 15 minutes before the smoothie separates.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Swap the milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk and use a plant-based yogurt or silken tofu in place of Greek yogurt; the honey can be replaced with maple syrup or a pitted date.
higher proteinHigher-protein
Add one scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based) and increase the milk by 2–3 tablespoons to maintain a drinkable consistency.
tropicalTropical
Replace half the banana with 1/2 cup of frozen mango or pineapple chunks for a tangier, more tropical flavor profile.
low sugarLow-sugar
Use a green-tipped (less ripe) banana and omit the honey; add a few drops of stevia or monk fruit sweetener if needed.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin K
The two cups of fresh spinach provide a generous dose of vitamin K, which supports bone health and normal blood clotting.
Natural Energy Source
Bananas supply quick-digesting carbohydrates and potassium, making this smoothie an excellent pre- or post-workout fuel.
Probiotic Support
Greek yogurt introduces live active cultures that can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess moisture first, or reduce the milk by 2–3 tablespoons to avoid a watery smoothie.
