Refreshing Kiwi Banana Green Smoothie

Refreshing Kiwi Banana Green Smoothie

This recipe aims for a balance of sweetness, tartness, and a vibrant green color.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• For the Smoothie:
  • 1 ripe banana (fresh or frozen for a colder, thicker smoothie)
  • 1-2 ripe kiwis, peeled and roughly chopped (adjust to your tartness preference)
  • 1/2 cup (about 60g) fresh spinach or kale (baby spinach is milder)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) liquid of choice (water, coconut water, almond milk, or apple juice)
  • 1/2 cup ice cubes (if not using frozen banana)
  • Optional: 1-2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar (for added sweetness, adjust to taste)
  • Optional: 1/4 inch fresh ginger, peeled (for a zesty kick)
• For Garnish (as seen in image):
  • 1-2 thin slices of kiwi (cut crosswise)
  • 1 thin slice of banana

Equipment:

• Blender
• Tall glass

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Peel and chop the banana. If using frozen banana, no need to chop finely.
   • Peel the kiwis and roughly chop them.
   • Wash the spinach or kale thoroughly.
2. Blend:
   • Add the liquid of your choice to the blender first. This helps with easier blending.
   • Next, add the spinach or kale, chopped banana, and chopped kiwi.
   • Add the ice cubes (if using) and any optional ingredients like sweetener or ginger.
   • Secure the lid on your blender.
3. Blend until Smooth:
   • Start blending on a low speed, then gradually increase to high.
   • Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no leafy green pieces remaining. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a few times.
   • If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more liquid (1-2 tablespoons at a time) and blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and Adjust:
   • Taste the smoothie. If it’s not sweet enough, add a little more sweetener. If it’s too thick, add more liquid.
5. Serve and Garnish:
   • Pour the smoothie into a tall glass.
   • Carefully slice a kiwi and a banana for garnish. Make a small slit in the kiwi slice and place it on the rim of the glass. Place the banana slice on the opposite side of the rim.
   • Enjoy immediately!

Tips & Variations:

• For a Thicker Smoothie: Use frozen banana, add more ice, or reduce the amount of liquid.
• For a Thinner Smoothie: Add more liquid.
• Protein Boost: Add 1 scoop of your favorite protein powder (vanilla or unflavored work well), 1-2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt, or a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds.
• More Greens: Feel free to increase the amount of spinach or kale. You can also add other greens like romaine lettuce.
• Other Fruits: Apples (especially green apples for color), pineapple, or mango would also blend well and add different flavors.
• Superfood Boost: Add a teaspoon of spirulina or chlorella powder for an extra nutritional punch and a more intense green color.
• Nutrient Boost: Add a tablespoon of nut butter (almond, cashew) for healthy fats and creaminess.
• Citrus Kick: A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice can brighten the flavors.