Resistant Starch Power Smoothie
This Resistant Starch Power Smoothie is a quick, nutrient-dense beverage designed to keep you full and energized, featuring raw green plantain for a unique texture and significant resistant starch content.
For 1 serving
Peel the green plantain. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off the ends and make a shallow slit lengthwise along one ridge of the plantain skin. Pry open the skin and peel it away. Roughly chop half of the plantain into 1-inch pieces.
Add the chopped green plantain, fresh spinach, protein powder, almond butter, and unsweetened almond milk to a high-speed blender.
If you prefer a colder, thicker smoothie, add the optional ice cubes to the blender.
Secure the lid and start blending on a low speed, gradually increasing to high. Blend for 1-2 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly pulverized.
Continue blending until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy, with no visible chunks of plantain or spinach. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula.
Check the consistency. If the smoothie is too thick for your preference, add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of unsweetened almond milk and blend again briefly until desired consistency is reached.
Pour the Resistant Starch Power Smoothie into a glass and serve immediately for the best taste and nutrient benefits.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1High-Speed Blender is Key: A powerful blender (like a Vitamix or Blendtec) is crucial for breaking down the raw green plantain into a perfectly smooth, lump-free consistency.
- 2Don't Over-Ripen: Ensure the plantain is distinctly green and firm; yellowing indicates ripening, which converts resistant starch to sugar, reducing its specific health benefits.
- 3Customize Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, consider adding a pitted Medjool date, a few drops of liquid stevia, or a small amount of maple syrup before blending.
- 4Batch Prep: For quicker morning routines, you can chop and freeze green plantain halves in advance. Just add them to the blender straight from the freezer.
Adapt it for your goals.
Berry Boost
Add 1/2 cup of frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries) for extra antioxidants, a touch of natural sweetness, and a vibrant color.
Chocolate Lover'sChocolate Lover's
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1/4 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for a rich, chocolatey twist that still offers all the benefits.
Nut Butter SwapNut Butter Swap
Substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for different flavor profiles and to accommodate various dietary needs or preferences.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Gut Health Support
Resistant starch from green plantains acts as a powerful prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and promoting a healthy, balanced microbiome, which is crucial for overall well-being.
Sustained Energy
The unique combination of complex carbohydrates (resistant starch), high-quality protein, and healthy fats provides a steady, slow release of energy, preventing energy crashes and keeping you feeling full longer.
High in Fiber
Spinach, green plantain, and almond butter collectively contribute a significant amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion, promoting regularity, and supporting stable blood sugar regulation.
Frequently asked questions
While a high-speed blender is highly recommended for optimal smoothness when processing raw green plantain, a regular blender can work. You might need to blend for a longer duration, add a little more liquid, and frequently stop to scrape down the sides to achieve a smooth consistency.
