Green Smoothie Spinach Apple

My roommate caught me standing in front of the open refrigerator at 7 AM, staring blankly at a wilting bag of spinach and a lonely apple on the shelf. She challenged me to make something drinkable before her coffee finished brewing. That random morning pressure created what has somehow become my most requested breakfast recipe.

Last summer my niece visited and wrinkled her nose at the vibrant green color in my glass. I told her it was a potion from a forest fairy. She took the tiniest sip, her eyes went wide, and she proceeded to drink the entire glass asking for seconds. Kids will surprise you when they cant taste the vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 large apple: Any variety works but Gala or Fuji add natural sweetness without being overpowering
• 1 ripe banana: Provides creaminess and balances the tartness from lemon
• 2 cups fresh spinach: The mild flavor makes it the perfect gateway green for smoothie beginners
• 1/2 lemon juice: Brightens everything and helps preserve the fresh color
• 1 cup cold water or almond milk: Almond milk adds richness, water keeps it light and refreshing

Instructions

Prep your produce:

Core and roughly chop the apple into chunks your blender can handle. Peel the banana and break it into pieces. Wash the spinach well, even the pre washed kind.

Load the blender:

Add the apple, banana, and spinach first. Pour in the lemon juice and your liquid of choice. Toss in any optional extras now.

Blend until smooth:

Start on low to break down the spinach, then crank to high for 30 to 60 seconds until completely smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust:

Give it a quick taste. Add sweetener if the apples werent sweet enough. Blend for another few seconds.

Serve immediately:

Pour into glasses, add ice if you want it extra cold, and drink right away while fresh.

Save to Pinterest

This green smoothie became my Monday morning ritual after a particularly chaotic week. Something about starting the week with something so visibly healthy made the rest of my choices feel a little easier.

Making Ahead

I learned the hard way that pre blended smoothies separate and turn brownish after a few hours. Instead, prep individual bags with chopped apple, banana, and spinach, freeze them, then just add liquid and blend when ready.

Liquid Options

Coconut water adds natural electrolytes, orange juice makes it taste like a tropical treat, and plain water keeps it the lightest option. My grandmother swears by cold green tea but I have never tried it.

Green Variations

Kale works surprisingly well but remove those tough stems first. Mixed baby greens add complexity. Fresh mint turns it into something completely refreshing.

• Start with less greens and work your way up
• A tiny piece of fresh ginger adds a nice kick
• Avocado makes it incredibly creamy without changing the taste much

Save to Pinterest

Sometimes the simplest mornings create the best habits.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I substitute spinach with other greens?

Yes, kale or mixed greens work well as alternatives, offering varied flavors and nutrition.

→ What liquids can I use for blending?

Cold water or unsweetened almond milk are recommended for a smooth texture without overpowering flavors.

→ How can I make the smoothie thicker and colder?

Using frozen banana slices or adding ice cubes before blending will create a chilled, thicker consistency.

→ Are there options to increase protein content?

Yes, adding a scoop of protein powder can boost protein levels without affecting taste much.

→ Is this blend suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely, the ingredients are plant-based and free from dairy or animal products.

→ Can I adjust sweetness without processed sugar?

Natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup may be added optionally to suit your taste.