Drink Your Leafy Greens Smoothie

By Erin Flowers

I’ve never been a big fan of eating my vegetables, especially the green, leafy ones (gasp!). I’m sorry, I know they’re good for me, and good for you, I’ve just never really had a taste for them! But, that doesn’t mean I don’t consume those phytonutrient rich, leafy greens on a regular basis, because I do. They offer way too many benefits for even the biggest skeptic to ignore. I usually can be found sipping Joe’s Mean Green or a Green Lemonade.

But if I am headed to the gym or just craving something a little denser than just juice, I make this super green, super satisfying smoothie loaded with SUPER foods. It is high in protein, Omega 3’s, vitamin K and contains all of the essential amino acids. It’s got a touch of earth, a bit of sweet and its green enough to make even Popeye proud.

So if you’re like me and just can’t stomach the greens (see what I did there?) try this recipe!

Ingredients

4 kale leaves (Tuscan cabbage)
1 handful of spinach
1/4 avocado
1/4 pineapple, rind removed
1/2 banana, frozen is best
1 cup (250 ml) coconut water
1 tsp (7.5 g) chia seeds
1 tsp (7.5 g) spirulina
1 date, optional but highly recommended to balance the strong spirulina taste!

Directions

Wash all ingredients well.
Remove rind from pineapple and remove skin from avocado.
Add all ingredients to the blender and blend on high, for about 45 – 60 seconds, until smooth.
Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Servings: 1

Serving Size: 16 - 18 oz (500 ml)

Calories: 340

Fat: 10 g

Trans Fat: 1.5 g

Cholesterol: 340 mg

Sodium: 340 mg

Carbohydrates: 66 g

Fiber: 14 g

Sugars: 37 g

Protein: 8 g