Is it just me or do you want to dive right into this bright green smoothie?
Since Dan and I have started making fresh juices to complement some of our weeknight meals, we’ve had an abundance of vegetable pulp sitting around. At first we were throwing the pulp away after juicing it, but quickly realized we didn’t feel right about tossing it. After doing some research, we learned that we could freeze the pulp and add it into smoothies and other recipes as needed. Done and done.
No more wasted juice pulp + more delicious smoothies = problem 110% solved.
I’ve been nestling this creamy green smoothie in my hands frequently over the last couple of weeks. It’s simple, healthy, and exploding with nutrients. Every time I drink it, I get a little bit hyper. Or maybe a lot a bit hyper. Something about it just makes me buzz with happy energy. Since it’s quick, easy, and nutrient-packed, it’s the perfect start to a busy day, and you can feel good knowing that you’re getting in a full serving of both fruits and vegetables in one delicious beverage. Thanks to the sweetness of the banana and almond milk, the bitterness of the kale mellows. If you’re reluctant to use kale, you could certainly add in spinach instead and ease into the idea of drinking something green. The hemp seeds, albeit small, are extremely mighty and add protein in addition to another layer of creaminess. Enough talking; go get your green Super Bowl detox on.
- 1 frozen ripe banana
- 1 cup frozen or fresh kale
- 3/4 cup sweetened vanilla almond milk
- 1 tablespoon hemp seeds
- Add the frozen banana, kale, almond milk, and hemp seeds to a blender. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes or until super smooth and green. You may need to add in additional almond milk or water if you don't have a high-powered blender.
I feel healthy and energetic just LOOKING at this smoothie. Lean, mean, and green is right!
Haha, healthy by association, right? I promise you’ll feel even healthier and happier drinking it :)
Oo hemp seeds, I’ve never thought to use those in my smoothies before! Thx. I’ve been all about the kale drinks lately, here’s one of my fave recipes: http://www.ivlproducts.com/all-day-energy-greens-drink/fitness-and-nutrition/Green-Supplement-Green-Smoothie-Recipes-to-Keep-You-Fueled-Throughout-Your-Day.aspx
The addition of pineapple sounds amazing! I’ll have to try that recipe, too. Hemp seeds are one of my favorite additions to smoothies (and let’s be serious, most food!) because they add a layer of creaminess and are packed with protein. Definitely a win-win ingredient!
What kind of hemp seeds do you use?
Hi Kim! My go-to hemp seeds are Hemp Hearts by Manitoba Harvest. You can find them at Whole Foods or on Manitoba Harvest’s website (http://manitobaharvest.com/category/13/Hemp+Hearts.html). They’re wonderful.
I love the texture of this smoothie! It’s absolutely gorgeous! And the color of green looks very tasty indeed) By the way, for those who are still looking for a juicer here at the juicer guru you may find the perfect one for you!
This has become my go to post-run smoothie! I have unsweetened almond milk and vanilla extract for the other recipes, so I used those and a little bit of agave nectar instead of buying sweetened almond milk. Delish and so refreshing!
Smooth, Creamy, Delicious. Almost like a dessert, but with none of the guilt! Another winner!
So glad you’re enjoying it, Brynna!
Is this good for weight loss?
Hi, Julie! I’m not sure about weight loss (I follow an intuitive eating approach), but it’s certainly a nourishing smoothie in terms of micronutrients. Hope this helps and enjoy!