Looking for a quick and healthy way to boost your energy in the morning or recharge in the afternoon? This Refreshing Green Smoothie is packed with leafy greens, creamy banana, almond butter, and fresh citrus flavor. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and full of nutrients that fuel your body and mind.
Unlike store-bought smoothies loaded with sugar, this homemade recipe is naturally sweetened with fruit and balanced with healthy fats and fiber. In just 5 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant green drink that’s perfect for breakfast, post-workout recovery, or a light snack.
Why You’ll Love This Green Smoothie
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 5 minutes with no cooking required.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins, fiber, antioxidants, and plant-based protein.
- Naturally Sweet: Made with fruit, no refined sugar needed.
- Energizing & Filling: Healthy fats from almond butter and chia seeds keep you satisfied.
- Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite greens or superfoods.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup baby spinach (fresh or frozen): A mild leafy green that blends easily without overpowering the flavor.
- ½ frozen banana: Adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon almond butter: Provides protein, healthy fats, and a nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds: Rich in Omega-3s and fiber, great for digestion.
- ½ cup frozen orange segments (mandarin or clementine): Adds a citrusy brightness and extra Vitamin C.
- ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk: A dairy-free base that keeps the smoothie light.
- A few ice cubes: For an extra-refreshing chill.
💡 Pro tip: Freezing your banana and orange segments makes the smoothie extra creamy and eliminates the need for ice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Add Ingredients to Blender
Place spinach, frozen banana, almond butter, chia seeds, frozen orange segments, almond milk, and ice cubes into a blender.
2. Blend Until Smooth
Blend on high speed for about 30–60 seconds until the mixture is creamy and vibrant green.
3. Adjust Consistency
If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more almond milk. If it’s too thin, toss in a few extra ice cubes.
4. Serve & Enjoy
Pour into a tall glass and enjoy immediately while cold and refreshing.
Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder for a more filling smoothie.
- Extra Greens: Swap half the spinach for kale or add cucumber for freshness.
- Superfood Upgrade: Sprinkle in spirulina, hemp seeds, or wheatgrass powder.
- Creamier Texture: Replace almond milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Sweeter Taste: Blend in a pitted date or a little honey if you prefer extra sweetness.
Health Benefits of This Green Smoothie
- Spinach: High in Vitamin K, iron, and antioxidants.
- Banana: Provides potassium and natural energy for the day.
- Almond Butter: Source of protein and heart-healthy fats.
- Chia Seeds: Boosts fiber and supports digestion.
- Oranges: Packed with Vitamin C for immune health.
- Almond Milk: Low-calorie and dairy-free, making it light and easy to digest.
Storage Tips
Smoothies are best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store in a sealed glass jar for up to 24 hours. Shake before drinking.
- Meal Prep Option: Freeze ingredients (except almond milk) in smoothie bags. Just dump into a blender with milk when ready.
Serving Suggestions
This smoothie makes a complete light meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Whole-grain toast topped with almond butter and banana.
- A handful of mixed nuts for extra crunch.
- A protein-packed breakfast wrap for busy mornings.