Pineapple Spinach Smoothie

Description

This Pineapple Spinach Smoothie is a refreshing, nutrient-packed drink perfect for breakfast, a mid-day boost, or a post-workout refresher. The tropical sweetness of pineapple balances beautifully with the mild flavor of fresh spinach, while banana and yogurt (or a plant-based alternative) create a creamy, satisfying texture. It’s light, energizing, and full of vitamins and antioxidants.

 Ingredients for Pineapple Spinach Smoothie

• 1 cup fresh spinach (washed and packed)

• 1 cup fresh or frozen pineapple chunks

• 1 medium ripe banana (fresh or frozen)

• ½ cup Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free)

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional, for fiber & omega-3s)

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, if extra sweetness is desired)

• Ice cubes (if using fresh fruit and you prefer a chilled smoothie)

‍ Instructions

1. Add spinach, pineapple, banana, yogurt, and milk to a blender.

2. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.

3. Taste and adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup if needed.

4. For a thicker smoothie, add more frozen fruit or ice.

5. Pour into a glass, sprinkle with chia/flax seeds if desired, and serve immediately.

 Notes

• Using frozen pineapple and banana gives the smoothie a thicker, milkshake-like texture.

• Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess, but it can be omitted or swapped with plant-based options.

• Spinach is mild in flavor; you won’t taste it, but you’ll still get all the nutrients.

 Tips

• Add ½ avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.

• For a protein boost, mix in a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder.

• If you want a detox-style drink, replace yogurt with coconut water for a lighter version.

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but give it a good stir before drinking.

️ Servings

• Makes 2 servings (about 12–14 oz each).

 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 190

• Protein: 7 g

• Carbohydrates: 38 g

• Fiber: 6 g

• Sugars: 24 g (from fruit)

• Fat: 3 g

• Vitamin C: 100%+ DV

• Vitamin A: 60% DV

• Calcium: 15% DV

• Iron: 10% DV

 Health Benefits

• Spinach → Rich in iron, vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants.

• Pineapple → High in vitamin C and bromelain, which supports digestion and reduces inflammation.

• Banana → Provides potassium for heart health and natural sweetness.

• Greek yogurt → Adds protein and probiotics for gut health.

• Chia/Flax seeds → Offer fiber, omega-3s, and satiety.

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I make this smoothie without banana?
Yes! Replace banana with ½ avocado (for creaminess) or ½ cup mango (for sweetness).

Q2: Is it good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s low in calories, nutrient-dense, and filling — especially if you add chia seeds for extra fiber.

Q3: Can I prepare it the night before?
Yes, but smoothies are best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep in a sealed jar in the fridge and shake before drinking.

Q4: Can I use kale instead of spinach?
Yes, but kale has a stronger flavor, so balance it with extra pineapple or a touch of honey.

Q5: Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The pineapple and banana mask the spinach flavor, making it a fun way to sneak greens into kids’ diets.