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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Refreshing Kiwi Banana Green Smoothie
