Tropical Green Power Smoothie
This recipe balances the creaminess of banana, the natural sweetness of mango, and the nutrient density of fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
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1 cup fresh baby spinach: Packed with vitamins and minerals.
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1 medium banana: Provides creamy texture and natural energy (use a frozen banana for a thicker, frostier consistency).
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1/2 cup fresh or frozen mango chunks: Adds a delicious tropical sweetness and extra fiber.
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1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or water/coconut water): Keeps the calorie count low while providing necessary liquid for blending.
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Optional boost: A squeeze of fresh lime juice or a small piece of ginger for extra zest and metabolism-supporting flavor.
Instructions:
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Add liquid first: Pour your chosen liquid (almond milk, water, or coconut water) into the blender. Adding liquid first helps the blades move freely.
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Add the greens: Add the fresh spinach. If you have a lower-powered blender, you might want to blend the liquid and spinach together first to ensure a perfectly smooth consistency.
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Add the fruit: Add the banana and the mango chunks.
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Blend: Start the blender on a low speed and gradually increase to high. Blend for 45–60 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
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Serve: Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately while chilled.
A Few Quick Tips for Success:
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Mind the portions: Even with healthy, whole-food ingredients, smoothies can be calorie-dense if they become too large. Stick to one serving as a snack or a light meal.
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Keep it balanced: To make this a more complete meal, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder or a tablespoon of chia seeds for healthy fats and extra satiety.
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Consistency is key: Enjoying this as part of a balanced diet filled with whole foods is the best approach for long-term health.