Ingredients
Method
- Prep the Banana: Ensure your banana slices are frozen solid. If they are soft, the smoothie will be too runny. Frozen bananas provide the thick, creamy texture usually achieved with ice.
- Layer the Blender: Pour the almond milk into the blender first to protect the blades and help create a vortex. Add the fresh spinach leaves next; liquid helps break them down initially.
- Add Solids: Toss in the frozen banana slices, mango chunks, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, lemon juice, ginger, and honey (if using).
- Blend High Speed: Secure the lid tightly. Start blending on low speed for 10 seconds to break up large pieces, then increase to high speed. Blend for 60-90 seconds until completely smooth and no green chunks remain. Scrape down the sides if necessary.
- Check Consistency: If it is too thick, add an additional splash of milk (one tablespoon at a time). If it is too thin, add more frozen fruit or ice. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Serve Immediately: Pour into a glass and drink right away to maximize nutrient intake before oxidation sets in.
Nutrition
Notes
The key is letting the spinach wilt completely before blending; you won't taste the greens at all if they are fully incorporated into the banana's sweetness. I keep this simple because life gets complicated enough by lunchtime.
Adding a teaspoon of chia seeds provides healthy fats that help nutrient absorption and keeps me fuller longer than fruit alone ever could.