Green Veggie Smoothie Recipe
The Green Veggie Smoothie is a nutrient-packed, refreshing beverage that’s perfect for a morning boost or a post-workout snack. Full of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, this smoothie is a powerhouse that supports digestive health, boosts energy, and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. It combines a variety of fresh vegetables and seeds to create a green, energizing drink that’s not only delicious but also great for your overall health.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chopped and stemmed kale (packed with vitamins A, K, and C)
- 1/2 cup baby spinach (rich in iron and folate)
- 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower (provides fiber and antioxidants)
- 1 Persian cucumber, cut into chunks (hydrating and low in calories)
- 1/2 lemon, peeled and cut into chunks (adds Vitamin C and a fresh citrus flavor)
- 1/4 cup almonds (rich in healthy fats and protein)
- 1 1/2 cups chilled green tea (antioxidant-rich and hydrating)
- 2 teaspoons chia seeds (packed with Omega-3s, fiber, and antioxidants)
- 2 teaspoons ground flax seed (rich in fiber, Omega-3 fatty acids, and lignans)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by chopping the kale and spinach. If you’re using fresh kale, remove the stems before chopping, as they can be tough and fibrous.
- Cut the Persian cucumber into chunks and peel the lemon before slicing it into pieces.
- Measure out the almonds, chia seeds, and flax seeds, making sure you have everything ready before blending.
- Blend the Ingredients:
- Add the kale, spinach, frozen cauliflower, Persian cucumber, and lemon chunks into your blender.
- Toss in the almonds, chia seeds, and flax seed, followed by the chilled green tea.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy. Depending on the consistency you like, you may want to add more green tea if it’s too thick, or a few ice cubes for extra chill.
- Serve:
- Once everything is blended to a smooth, green perfection, pour the smoothie into a glass. You can garnish it with a few extra chia seeds or a slice of lemon for a decorative touch.
- Enjoy:
- Drink it immediately to get the maximum nutritional benefits, or refrigerate it for up to a few hours if needed.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: ~8 grams
- Carbohydrates: ~30 grams
- Fiber: ~12 grams
- Fat: ~14 grams
- Sugars: ~8 grams
- Vitamin A: ~120% of the daily value (DV)
- Vitamin C: ~60% DV
- Calcium: ~10% DV
- Iron: ~15% DV
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: ~4 grams
Health Benefits:
- Detoxifying: Kale and spinach are rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll, which help detoxify the body and fight inflammation.
- Digestive Health: The fiber from kale, spinach, cauliflower, and seeds aids in digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and supports a healthy gut.
- Skin Health: The Vitamin C from lemon and kale helps boost collagen production for glowing skin, while the antioxidants protect against aging and free radical damage.
- Hydration: Green tea, cucumber, and lemon provide hydration, while the healthy fats from almonds and seeds ensure that the smoothie keeps you full longer.
- Weight Management: The fiber and healthy fats help control hunger, while the green tea boosts metabolism and promotes fat-burning.
- Heart Health: Almonds and flax seeds are rich in heart-healthy fats, while the omega-3s from chia and flax seeds help reduce inflammation and promote cardiovascular health.
Tips & Variations:
- If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, feel free to add a small banana or an apple.
- For a creamier texture, you can add a small amount of avocado or Greek yogurt.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare and freeze the chopped veggies and fruits ahead of time.
This Green Veggie Smoothie is the perfect drink for anyone looking to boost their nutrient intake, improve digestion, and enjoy a healthy, energizing treat. It’s customizable, delicious, and packed with wholesome ingredients that benefit both your body and mind. Enjoy this smoothie daily for a vibrant, healthy start to your day!