• Fresh Spinach (2 packed cups): This is the powerhouse of the smoothie. Use fresh, tender baby spinach for the mildest flavor. It blends seamlessly and provides a huge dose of vitamins and minerals without imparting a “grassy” taste.
• Ripe Bananas (2 medium, preferably frozen): The bananas are the star of the show when it comes to sweetness and texture. Using ripe, spotty bananas ensures maximum natural sweetness, while using them frozen creates an incredibly thick, creamy, milkshake-like consistency without watering down the smoothie with ice.
• Unsweetened Almond Milk (1 cup): This acts as the liquid base, allowing the ingredients to blend smoothly. Unsweetened almond milk is a great low-calorie, dairy-free option with a neutral taste that lets the fruit shine. You can substitute with any milk of your choice, dairy or non-dairy.
• Plain Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup): Greek yogurt adds a wonderful tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the banana. More importantly, it provides a significant protein boost, making the smoothie more satiating, and contributes to its rich, creamy texture. For a vegan option, use a plant-based yogurt.
• Chia Seeds (1 tablespoon): These tiny seeds are a nutritional giant. They add a boost of fiber, protein, and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. When blended, they also help to thicken the smoothie and keep you feeling full for longer.
• Honey or Maple Syrup (1 teaspoon, optional): For those with a sweeter tooth or if your bananas aren’t quite ripe enough, a small drizzle of a natural sweetener can elevate the flavor. This is entirely optional and can be adjusted to your personal taste.
