Save Pin Last summer my daughter decided she hated anything green, which sent me on a mission to prove her wrong. I spent weeks experimenting with smoothie combinations until one morning she grabbed a bright green glass, took a huge gulp, and asked for seconds. That was the moment this spinach hidden smoothie earned permanent rotation in our breakfast routine.
My sister was visiting during one of those hectic weeks when school schedules collided with work deadlines. I handed her a Mason jar filled with this bright green concoction as she rushed out the door, and she texted me three hours later demanding the recipe because her energy had never been more steady.
Ingredients
- 1 medium banana: Frozen beforehand creates that milkshake like creaminess that makes people forget they are drinking something healthy
- 1 cup frozen mango chunks: These bring natural sweetness and a beautiful golden undertone to the color
- 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks: The acidity here cuts through any grassy notes from the spinach
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach: Pack these down tight because they wilt down significantly once blended
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk: Start with this amount and adjust depending on how thick you like your smoothies
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseed: Optional but adds a lovely thickness and keeps you full longer
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Only needed if your fruit is not quite ripe enough
Instructions
- Load your blender strategically:
- Pour in liquids first, then add fresh spinach followed by frozen fruit on top to help the blades catch everything
- Blend on high speed:
- Let it run for at least 45 seconds, stopping once to scrape down the sides and check for any leafy chunks
- Taste and adjust:
- Add more milk if it is too thick or a drizzle of honey if the fruit needs extra sweetness
- Serve immediately:
- Pour into your favorite glass and enjoy while still frosty cold
Save Pin
Save Pin This smoothie has become my go to when friends say they want to eat healthier but do not know where to start. Watching someone take that first hesitant sip then ask for the recipe never gets old.
Make It Your Own
I have found that swapping spinach for kale works beautifully if you want a more earthy flavor profile. The key is adjusting your fruit accordingly because kale plays rougher than sweet tender baby spinach.
Storage Tips
These smoothies store surprisingly well in the freezer for up to a week. Just pour any extra into Mason jars, leaving an inch at the top for expansion, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a quick shake in the morning.
Serving Ideas
Sometimes I pour the thickened mixture into bowls and top with granola, coconut flakes, and fresh berries for a completely different experience. The texture becomes almost like soft serve ice cream.
- Add a handful of fresh mint leaves before blending for extra brightness
- Squeeze in half a lime to really make the tropical flavors pop
- Sprinkle some bee pollen on top for a beautiful finishing touch
Save Pin
Save Pin Here is to drinking your greens without ever feeling like you are sacrificing flavor. Cheers to mornings that start with a little health and a lot of happiness.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I taste the spinach in this smoothie?
No, the spinach flavor is completely masked by the sweet tropical fruits. The banana, mango, and pineapple provide dominant flavors that make the greens virtually undetectable, perfect for those who want to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.
- → Can I use fresh fruit instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit, but frozen fruits create a thicker, creamier texture and make the smoothie colder without needing ice. If using fresh fruit, consider adding a few ice cubes to achieve a similar consistency.
- → What can I substitute for almond milk?
Any milk works well in this smoothie, including dairy milk, oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. Each option will slightly alter the flavor profile, but all will create a smooth, creamy texture.
- → How long does this smoothie keep in the refrigerator?
Best enjoyed immediately for optimal texture and nutrition. If you need to store it, keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick stir or blend before drinking as separation may occur.
- → Can I add protein powder to this smoothie?
Absolutely. Adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder transforms this into a post-workout meal replacement. Vanilla or unflavored protein powders work best as they complement rather than overpower the fruit flavors.