smoothie-the-week-green

Green Protein Smoothie Recipe

Ingredients:

- 1 cup fresh spinach – great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber.

- 1/2 avocado – Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and potassium, it gives the smoothie a creamy texture.

- 1/2 banana – Adds natural sweetness and provides potassium.

- 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder – Helps in muscle repair and growth.

- 1 tbsp chia seeds – A good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, iron, and calcium.

- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk – A low-calorie milk alternative that provides a smooth base.

- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt – Adds a creamy texture and is a good source of protein and probiotics.

- 1 tsp honey (optional) – For a touch of sweetness 

- Juice of half a lemon – Adds freshness and vitamin C.

- A few ice cubes – For a chilled smoothie.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:

- Rinse the spinach leaves thoroughly under cold water.

- Peel the banana and cut it into chunks.

- Pit and scoop out the avocado.

2. Blend the Greens:

- In a blender, combine the spinach, avocado, and a little bit of almond milk. Blend until the mixture is smooth and free of chunks. This step ensures that all the green ingredients are fully incorporated without any leafy bits.

3. Add Remaining Ingredients:

- Add the banana, protein powder, chia seeds, Greek yogurt, the rest of the almond milk, lemon juice, and honey to the blender. If you prefer a colder smoothie, add the ice cubes at this stage.

4. Blend Until Smooth:

- Blend on high speed until everything is thoroughly combined and the smoothie is creamy and smooth. Depending on your blender, this might take 30 seconds to a minute.

5. Taste and Adjust:

- Taste your smoothie. If you prefer it a bit sweeter, you can add a little more honey or a couple of drops of stevia. If it's too thick, add a bit more almond milk and blend again.

6. Serve Immediately:

- Pour the smoothie into a large glass or a bowl if you like to eat it with a spoon. You can garnish with a few spinach leaves or a sprinkle of chia seeds for an extra touch.

This green protein smoothie is not only nourishing but also incredibly refreshing. It makes a perfect meal replacement or a supplementary snack, providing a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.

Enjoy your vibrant, health-packed drink!