Refreshing Green Apple and Spinach Smoothie

Refreshing Green Apple and Spinach Smoothie

This smoothie is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a great way to kickstart your day or enjoy a healthy snack. The tartness of the green apple and lemon perfectly balances the earthiness of the spinach.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium green apple, cored and roughly chopped (you can leave the skin on for extra fiber, just make sure to wash it well)
• 1 cup (about 30g) fresh baby spinach
• 1/2 medium lemon, juiced (about 1-2 tablespoons)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water or unsweetened almond milk (for a creamier texture)
• 3-4 ice cubes (optional, for extra chill and thickness)
• Optional additions for enhanced flavor/nutrition:
  • 1/2 inch fresh ginger, peeled (for a zesty kick)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cucumber, peeled and chopped (for extra hydration)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds (for omega-3s and fiber)
  • 1/2 ripe banana (for natural sweetness and creaminess, if you prefer less tartness)
  • 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or unflavored, for a more filling smoothie)

Equipment:

• Blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Instructions:

1. Prepare your ingredients:

   • Wash the green apple thoroughly and chop it into smaller pieces. Remember to remove the core.
   • Wash the spinach thoroughly.
   • Cut the lemon in half and squeeze out the juice, making sure to remove any seeds.
   • If using ginger or cucumber, peel and chop them.

2. Add to the blender:

   • Start by adding the liquid (water or almond milk) to your blender first. This helps with blending.
   • Next, add the spinach.
   • Then, add the chopped green apple and lemon juice.
   • Add any optional ingredients you’ve chosen (ginger, cucumber, chia seeds, banana, protein powder).
   • Finally, add the ice cubes if you’re using them.

3. Blend until smooth:

   • Secure the lid on your blender.
   • Start blending on a low speed, then gradually increase to high.
   • Blend for 1-2 minutes, or until the smoothie is completely smooth and no chunks of spinach or apple remain. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon or two more of water or almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.

4. Serve immediately:

   • Pour the freshly blended smoothie into a glass and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Adjust sweetness/tartness: If you find the smoothie too tart, add a small piece of ripe banana, a few dates, or a teaspoon of honey/maple syrup. If you prefer it more tart, add a little more lemon juice.
• Consistency: For a thicker smoothie, use less liquid or add more ice cubes. For a thinner smoothie, add more liquid.
• Make it colder: Use frozen green apple chunks or frozen spinach to make the smoothie even colder and thicker without diluting the flavor.
• Storage: While best enjoyed immediately, you can store any leftover smoothie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before drinking as separation may occur.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to adjust the ratios or add other greens like kale, or different fruits like pineapple or mango, to find your perfect green smoothie blend!

Enjoy your refreshing and healthy green apple and spinach smoothie!