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Introduction
The concept of green smoothies has roots in the raw food movement of the 1970s, but it wasn't until the early 2000s that they gained mainstream popularity. This Vibrant Green Goddess Vegan Smoothie is a modern twist on the classic green smoothie, incorporating superfoods and plant-based proteins to create a complete meal in a glass. As more people embrace plant-based diets for health and environmental reasons, recipes like this have become go-to options for those seeking quick, nutritious meals. Whether you're a long-time vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, this smoothie offers a delicious way to nourish your body and awaken your senses.
Ingredients
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach, lightly packed
• 1 medium ripe banana, peeled and frozen
• 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
• 1/2 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 scoop (about 30g) vanilla plant-based protein powder
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon spirulina powder (optional, for extra nutrients and vibrant green color)
• 1/2 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 1-2 pitted Medjool dates (optional, for added sweetness)
• 4-5 ice cubes
Step 1:
Add spinach, frozen banana, pineapple chunks, avocado, almond milk, protein powder, chia seeds, lemon juice, spirulina (if using), grated ginger, dates (if using), and ice cubes to a high-speed blender.
Step 2:
Blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds, or until smooth and creamy. Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender if necessary.
Step 3:
Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more dates if desired, or thin out the consistency with additional almond milk if needed. Blend again for 15-30 seconds if adjustments are made.
Step 4:
Pour the smoothie into glasses and serve immediately.
Q: Can I meal prep this smoothie?
A: You can pre-portion the ingredients (except liquid) into freezer bags for quick preparation. Blend with fresh almond milk when ready to consume.
Q: Is this smoothie suitable for weight loss?
A: This nutrient-dense, high-fiber smoothie can be part of a weight loss plan when consumed as a meal replacement or healthy snack within your daily calorie goals.
Q: Can I omit the protein powder?
A: Yes, you can omit the protein powder. Consider adding a tablespoon of hemp seeds or an extra half avocado for added protein and creaminess.
• For a creamier texture, use frozen banana slices instead of a whole frozen banana.
• Adjust the amount of almond milk to achieve desired consistency.
• Spinach can be substituted with kale or swiss chard for variety.
• If you don't have fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch.
• For a nut-free version, replace almond milk with oat milk or coconut water.
• Choose a high-quality plant-based protein powder for best results and flavor.
• This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
Pour the smoothie into tall glasses and serve immediately. For an Instagram-worthy presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of chia seeds or a small piece of pineapple on the rim.
This smoothie is best consumed immediately. If necessary, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir well before drinking.
Prepare and measure all ingredients before starting to blend for a quick and efficient process.
- Use frozen banana and pineapple to create a thick, frosty texture without diluting the flavors with ice.
- Add the liquid ingredients first, followed by the softer ingredients, then the frozen items for optimal blending.
- If your blender struggles with frozen ingredients, let them thaw slightly before blending.
For a tropical twist, replace half of the pineapple with frozen mango. To make it more indulgent, add a tablespoon of coconut cream or use coconut milk instead of almond milk.
Serve alongside a piece of whole grain toast with almond butter for a complete breakfast. For a refreshing drink pairing, try unsweetened iced green tea.
This smoothie can be enjoyed year-round, but it's especially refreshing in spring and summer.
Contains tree nuts (almond milk). May contain soy or pea protein depending on the plant-based protein powder used. Check protein powder label for specific allergens.
