Prep time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2 | Calories: ~180 per serving

Ingredients

The Kiwi Layer (Green):

  • 3 ripe kiwis, peeled and sliced

  • 1 frozen banana (provides a creamy, soft-serve texture)

  • 1/2 cup baby spinach (optional, for a deeper green color without changing the flavor)

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt

  • 1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)

The Strawberry Layer (Pink):

  • 1 ½ cups frozen strawberries

  • 1/2 cup orange juice (adds a nice citrus zing)

  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, depending on berry sweetness)

  • A splash of water if the blend is too thick

Garnish:

  • Fresh kiwi slices and strawberry halves

Preparation Instructions

  1. Prepare the Green Base: In a high-speed blender, combine the peeled kiwis, frozen banana slices, yogurt, milk, and optional spinach. Blend until completely smooth and thick. If the mixture is too thin, add a few ice cubes; it needs to be sturdy enough to support the second layer. Pour this mixture into two glasses, filling them about two-thirds of the way. Place the glasses in the freezer for 5 minutes to set slightly while you make the next layer.

  2. Prepare the Pink Topping: Rinse your blender pitcher. Add the frozen strawberries, orange juice, and sweetener. Blend on high until the mixture is a thick, slushy consistency. Because strawberries can be fibrous, ensure you blend long enough to achieve a velvety texture.

  3. The Artistic Pour: Remove the glasses from the freezer. To achieve the beautiful swirl effect seen in your photo, use a large spoon to gently “float” the strawberry mixture over the kiwi base. You can use a skewer to lightly swirl the colors together at the meeting point.

  4. Final Touches: Thread a slice of kiwi and a strawberry onto a cocktail pick or small skewer. Place it across the rim of the glass. Serve immediately with a reusable straw.

Quick Tips for Success

  • Frozen Fruit is Key: Using frozen fruit instead of ice prevents the smoothie from becoming watered down and ensures that “thick” texture required for layering.

  • Consistency Check: If your layers are blending too much, your smoothie is likely too warm. Chill your glasses beforehand to help the fruit “hold” its place.