Tropical Green Smoothie
Have you ever tried your hand at a “Green Smoothie?” I was a big skeptic, I mean, it's green. But don't let that prevent you from giving it a go; you may very well enjoy it as I did! Heck, it is even husband approved.
Why go green? Adding greens can help you meet your quota of fruits and veggies for the day. But beyond that, green veggies come loaded with additional water content, iron, and fibre; in fact, kale contains a bountiful amount of vitamin C. And, most importantly, you most likely won't even taste the greens since other flavours usually take over.
This version of a green smoothie is perhaps my very favorite. When you live in Winnipeg, also affectionately known as "Winter-peg," you sometimes crave a bit of paradise. And voila, this comes close! (Ok, maybe not exactly white-sandy-beaches-paradise, but it kinda sorta tastes like it!).
I added a few heaping spoonfuls of hemp hearts. These little guys have a nutty flavour and come loaded with protein, fibre and fat; the good kinda fat! And now, for the recipe; makes 2 - 3 portions and keeps well over several days. Enjoy as a meal replacement, a snack or as a post workout beverage.
Tropical Green Smoothie
PREP TIME: 5 mins
TOTAL TIME: 5 mins
Serves: 2-3
INGREDIENTS
1 banana, fresh or frozen (should be ripe—frozen banana will make it more creamy)
1 cup pineapple, fresh or frozen
1 cup mango, fresh or frozen
2 cups water (you can also use milk or your favorite milk alternative)
2 cups packed spinach/kale
½ - 1 scoop of your favourite protein powder *optional
1 tbsp ground flax seed
4 tbsp hemp hearts/seeds
INSTRUCTIONS
Blend your chosen green leaves with the water. Liquify for a few seconds until the leaves have emulsified into the water.
This is a good time to blend in your protein if you decide to add some.
Add remaining ingredients and blend until smooth.
Tip: If you don’t have a very powerful blender, you can blend your smoothie in stages. This ensures it will be "homogenous.” Blend up your leafy greens and liquid-base first, then you're ready to add any remaining fruits or veggies.
For more smoothie tips and hacks, be sure to visit my friend Jessica Penner's blog post, here.
