Yesterday, I wrote that I’ve been making smoothies for breakfast recently, and Heidi asked if I would share the recipe, which I’m happy to do.
I should mention that I make smoothies in my food processor, for two reasons:
1) I need the capacity, because I usually make enough for my husband and kids too (the kids haven’t warmed up to the idea of a green drink yet, but I keep trying) and,
2) My blender stinks. I’ve needed a new one for years, but I’ve never made it a priority.
The food processor actually seems to make a smoother smoothie. I think the large, sharp blade does a better job of pulverizing the frozen fruits and veggies.
Here’s what you’ll need:
1 cup low, or nonfat milk. I use 1%.
1 cup yogurt. I use Chobani, either vanilla or plain. It makes a very rich, thick smoothie.
1 (9-ounce) package frozen, chopped spinach, thawed
1 frozen banana, cut into small pieces. Whenever we have an overripe banana that nobody wants to eat, I peel it, cut it in half, and add to a container in my freezer.
1 cup frozen strawberries (raspberries or blueberries are also good)
2 teaspoons honey
NOTE: This recipe makes 3 large servings – enough for 2 adults and 2 small children. If you’re just making some for yourself, you’ll want to cut it in half. Also, you should defrost your spinach in the fridge the night before – it blends up better that way.
First, put the fruits and spinach in the food processor or blender.
Add the rest of the ingredients,
And blend it up until smooth.
This makes the thickest, creamiest smoothie I’ve ever had, and it’s very filling. It’s also an easy way to get a couple of fruit/veggie servings in, plus calcium and protein (Chobani has twice the protein of regular yogurt).
If the idea of spinach in a smoothie is off-putting to you, let me reassure you that you don’t really taste it at all. Spinach is a very mild, tender green, which pairs well with fruits and sweet dressings, so it’s a natural in fruit smoothies. It just adds a tiny bit of texture, while packing a big nutritional punch.
See….my husband couldn’t be happier about it!
