Healthy Mango Spinach Smoothie

Healthy Mango Spinach Smoothie

This vibrant green smoothie is packed with nutrients from spinach and the delicious sweetness of mango. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast, a refreshing snack, or a post-workout refuel.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh spinach (packed): Don’t be shy with the spinach! When blended, its flavor is mild and easily masked by the fruit.
• 1 cup frozen mango chunks: Using frozen mango helps create a thick, creamy, and cold smoothie without needing ice.
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup liquid:
  • For a creamier smoothie: Use unsweetened almond milk, coconut water, or a light dairy milk.
  • For a lighter, more refreshing smoothie: Use plain water or unsweetened green tea.
• Optional additions (for added nutrition or flavor):
  • 1/2 small banana (fresh or frozen): Adds natural sweetness and creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds: Boosts fiber and omega-3s.
  • 1 tablespoon protein powder (vanilla or unflavored): For an extra protein kick.
  • 1/4 inch knob of fresh ginger (peeled): Adds a zesty, warming kick.
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain): For extra protein and a tangier flavor.
  • A few drops of vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and flavor.

Equipment:

• Blender (high-speed blender recommended for best results)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Drinking glass

Instructions:

1. Add liquid first: Pour your chosen liquid into the blender. This helps the blades move freely and prevents the other ingredients from getting stuck.
2. Add spinach: Add the packed fresh spinach on top of the liquid.
3. Add frozen mango: Add the frozen mango chunks to the blender.
4. Add optional ingredients: If you’re using any of the optional additions like banana, seeds, protein powder, ginger, yogurt, or vanilla, add them now.
5. Blend until smooth: Secure the lid on your blender and start blending on a low speed, gradually increasing to high. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no visible spinach flecks. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula if ingredients get stuck.
6. Adjust consistency: If the smoothie is too thick, add more liquid (1-2 tablespoons at a time) and blend again until desired consistency is reached. If it’s too thin, you can add a few more frozen mango chunks or a few ice cubes and blend again.
7. Taste and adjust sweetness (optional): Taste the smoothie. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a small amount of honey, maple syrup, or a pitted date and blend again.
8. Pour and serve: Pour the healthy mango spinach smoothie into a tall glass.
9. Garnish (optional): As seen in the image, you can garnish with a few extra fresh mango chunks and a fun straw!

Tips for Success:

• Use frozen fruit: Frozen mango is key for a thick, cold smoothie without diluting the flavor with ice. If you only have fresh mango, you can add a handful of ice cubes.
• Blend well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly blended for a smooth, palatable texture. High-speed blenders work best for this.
• Customize to your taste: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the liquid amount and optional additions to find your perfect smoothie.
• Meal prep tip: You can pre-portion spinach and frozen mango into freezer bags for quick smoothie assembly during the week. Just add liquid and blend when ready!
• Don’t worry about the green color: While the color might be intense, the mango sweetness largely masks the spinach flavor, making it a delicious way to sneak in extra greens.

Enjoy your refreshing and nutritious Mango Spinach Smoothie!