Pistachio Avocado Green Smoothie

Pistachio Avocado Green Smoothie

This smoothie is packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making it a great breakfast or snack.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup shelled pistachios (plus a few for garnish, if desired)
• 1/2 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 1/2 medium banana, sliced (plus a few slices for garnish, if desired)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or your preferred milk)
• 1/2 cup fresh spinach or kale (packed) – not visible in the ingredients glass, but common in green smoothies
• 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• A few ice cubes (optional, for a colder, thicker smoothie)

Equipment:

• Blender
• Tall glass

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: If your pistachios are salted, you might want to rinse them briefly to reduce sodium, though a little salt can enhance flavor. Slice your banana and avocado.
2. Layer in the blender (or add all at once):
   • Start with the liquid: Pour the almond milk into your blender.
   • Add the greens: If using spinach or kale, add it now.
   • Add the softer ingredients: Add the avocado, banana, and Greek yogurt.
   • Add the pistachios.
   • If using, add honey/maple syrup, vanilla extract, and ice cubes.
3. Blend until smooth: Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high speed until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to ensure everything is incorporated.
4. Adjust consistency and sweetness: If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a bit more avocado. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
5. Pour and serve: Pour the smoothie into a tall glass.
6. Garnish: Garnish with a few extra banana slices and shelled pistachios, as shown in the image, if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips and Variations:

• Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra boost.
• Fiber Boost: Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds.
• Other Greens: While spinach is milder, you can use kale for more nutrients.
• Sweetness Control: Adjust the amount of banana or sweetener to your liking. Riper bananas will add more natural sweetness.
• Nutritional Boost: Consider adding a teaspoon of spirulina or chlorella powder for even more nutrients (though this will intensify the green color).
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dry ingredients (pistachios, banana, avocado) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for a quick blend later, but for best taste and nutrient retention, it’s best to blend and consume immediately.