Green Smoothie

This smoothie is packed with healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, making it a great option for breakfast or a nutritious snack.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium avocado, ripe: Diced into chunks. (The image shows a significant amount of avocado, contributing to the creamy texture and green color.)
• 1/2 medium banana, ripe: Sliced. (Adds natural sweetness and creaminess.)
• 1/4 cup raw almonds: (Provides healthy fats, protein, and a subtle nutty flavor. The image clearly shows whole almonds.)
• 1/2 to 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other milk of choice): Start with 1/2 cup and add more to reach desired consistency.
• Optional additions (not clearly visible in the image but common in green smoothies):
  • Handful of spinach or kale: (For added greens and nutrients, will blend seamlessly into the green color.)
  • 1-2 Medjool dates (pitted): (For extra sweetness, if desired.)
  • 1 scoop protein powder: (Vanilla or unflavored would work well for an extra protein boost.)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: (Enhances flavor.)
  • Ice cubes: (For a colder, thicker smoothie.)

Equipment:

• Blender

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Dice the avocado and slice the banana.
2. Add to blender: Place the diced avocado, sliced banana, and raw almonds into your blender.
3. Add liquid: Pour in 1/2 cup of unsweetened almond milk.
4. Add optional ingredients: If using spinach, kale, dates, protein powder, or vanilla extract, add them to the blender now.
5. Blend: Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy. Start by pulsing a few times to break down the larger ingredients, then blend continuously.
6. Adjust consistency: If the smoothie is too thick, add more almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, and blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve: Pour the green smoothie into a glass.
8. Garnish (Optional): The image shows a very small amount of what looks like crumbled nuts or a light sprinkle on top. You could replicate this with a pinch of chopped almonds, a few chia seeds, or a tiny sprinkle of shredded coconut.

Tips for the Best Green Smoothie:

• Use ripe fruit: Ripe avocados and bananas will give your smoothie the best flavor and creamiest texture.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your smoothie before serving and adjust sweetness if needed. You can add more banana, dates, or a touch of honey/maple syrup.
• Cold ingredients: Using cold almond milk and/or adding a few ice cubes will result in a colder, more refreshing smoothie.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different greens, fruits, and seeds to find your favorite green smoothie combination!