Simple Green Gut Smoothie
This Simple Green Gut Smoothie is a quick and delicious way to boost your daily nutrient intake, packing a significant amount of raw spinach into a sweet, creamy drink without any grassy taste. It's designed for optimal gut health and sustained energy.
For 1 serving
Gather all your ingredients. If using a fresh banana, you might want to add a bit more ice for a colder, thicker smoothie.
Pour the unsweetened almond milk into the blender first. This helps the blades move freely and prevents ingredients from sticking to the bottom.
Add the fresh spinach, banana (fresh or frozen), optional protein powder, and optional chia seeds to the blender.
Add the ice cubes last, on top of the other ingredients. This helps push everything down towards the blades.
Secure the lid and blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds, or until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy with no visible spinach flecks.
If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more almond milk and blend again. If it's too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a tablespoon of chia seeds and blend.
Pour into a glass and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a colder, creamier smoothie, always use a frozen banana. You can peel and freeze ripe bananas in advance.
- 2Add liquids first to your blender, then soft ingredients, then hard/frozen ingredients. This layering helps the blender work more efficiently.
- 3If you don't have protein powder, a tablespoon of nut butter (like almond or cashew) can add healthy fats and protein for satiety.
- 4To make this smoothie ahead, blend it and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir or shake well before serving, as some separation may occur.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Boost
Add 1/4 cup of frozen mango, pineapple, or mixed berries for extra sweetness and antioxidants. This will change the color slightly.
Nutrient Power UpNutrient Power-Up
Incorporate 1/2 inch fresh ginger, 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, or 1 tbsp flax seeds for additional anti-inflammatory benefits and healthy fats.
Liquid SwapLiquid Swap
Substitute almond milk with coconut water for a more hydrating, electrolyte-rich option, or use oat milk for extra creaminess and fiber.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Digestive Health
Rich in fiber from spinach, banana, and optional chia seeds, this smoothie aids digestion, promotes regularity, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Nutrient Dense
Spinach provides vitamins A, C, K, and folate, while bananas offer potassium and B6. This blend delivers a wide array of essential micronutrients.
Sustained Energy
The natural sugars from the banana provide quick energy, while fiber and optional protein powder help stabilize blood sugar, preventing energy crashes.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can! Kale is another great option, though it has a stronger flavor. If using kale, you might want to remove the tough stems and blend for a bit longer to ensure a smooth texture.
