15 Veggie-Packed Inexperienced Smoothie Recipes to Try
Smoothies are an easy way to incorporate more raw vegetables into your diet. Greens are packed with fiber, vitamin K, iron, potassium, magnesium and more for an impressive health boost.
They’re also packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants help combat free radicals that can lead to chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease.
Green vegetables offer numerous health advantages and are easily absorbable by the body when blended in a powerful blender. Greens have plenty of essential vitamins and minerals that your body can benefit from, making them an ideal snack choice.
Here are five veggie-packed smoothie recipes you should try:
This straightforward dairy-free smoothie features dates, banana and spinach for a satisfying, nutritious start to the day. The bananas add sweetness without diluting the green hue while almond milk makes it creamy and smooth.
You could also add in a frozen banana for additional sweetness and creaminess. As bananas tend to be sweeter when ripe, freezing them ahead of time is recommended.
For a healthier alternative, you could add almond butter and chia seeds for healthy fats that will also make the soup creamier.
If you’re looking to up your veggie intake, turnip greens are an ideal option. Not only do they have a refreshing radish-like flavor, but they’re packed with nutrients like vitamins A, B6, C and D – perfect for adding them to any meal!
Another root veggie to consider is carrots, which provide vitamin A and C as well as fiber and potassium. Plus they’re an excellent source of iron and calcium – perfect for giving your smoothie an extra kick!
1. Spinach and Banana Smoothie
This Spinach and Banana Smoothie is the perfect way to start your day or enjoy as a nutritious snack! It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, plant-based and easy to make – the perfect breakfast or afternoon pick me up!
Nutritional Benefits of Spinach and Banana
Both fruits are rich sources of potassium, an essential mineral which aids muscle movement and nerve communication. Furthermore, potassium helps control blood pressure levels and supports a healthy heart.
Vitamins and Minerals
Fruits provide essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, C, E, K, B6, folate, iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper. Not only that but fruits also help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation levels and lower the risk of heart disease or cancer.
Fiber
Fruits and vegetables are beneficial to your health because they contain fiber, which helps keep your digestive tract regular and prevent constipation. Plus, these nutritious treats may keep you feeling full for an extended period of time.
Fresh fruits are packed with antioxidants, which may reduce your risk for chronic illnesses like heart disease and cancer. That makes it a great idea to add fruits to your diet every day!
Sweet fruits such as apples, pears or peaches make for a nutritious smoothie that doesn’t add any added sugar. Use these healthy alternatives for even sweeter smoothies!
Apples are an excellent source of fibre and vitamin C. Plus, their peel is packed full of anti-oxidants and polyphenols.
Green leafy vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins A, K and C as well as folate, calcium, iron and magnesium. Furthermore, they contain dietary fiber which may reduce your risk for chronic diseases like heart disease or diabetes.
Avocado is an ideal addition to this smoothie as it provides both protein and healthy fats. Plus, adding avocado will definitely boost your energy levels!
Chia seeds make an excellent addition to this smoothie as they add an earthy taste and thicken it. Furthermore, they’re packed with fibre, protein and omega-3 fatty acids for added nutritional benefits.
Add a hint of citrus with lemon or orange juice. The acid in these juices will help to muffle the spinach flavor while simultaneously softening the banana’s taste.
If you don’t enjoy bananas, this smoothie can also be made with strawberries or raspberries instead. The berry will still add sweetness while the banana will provide creaminess.
Other ingredients you could incorporate into this smoothie include Greek yogurt, flax or chia seeds, frozen fruit juice or blueberries!
Tips for Customization and Variation
1. If you don’t have access to a powerful blender, start by blending the spinach first before adding in all other ingredients until they are completely liquidized. This will help ensure that all components of the smoothie blend together evenly.
2. To make this smoothie even creamier and creamier, add more milk or ice cubes. This will help hydrate the smoothie for extra creaminess and deliciousness!
2. Healthy Kale and Pineapple Smoothie
Nutritional Benefits
Kale is a nutrient-rich green leafy vegetable with numerous health advantages. It’s packed with fiber, antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals.
Pineapple is an incredibly nutrient-rich fruit that offers numerous health advantages. It contains Vitamin C, which supports your immune system; as well as bromelain – a digestive enzyme which aids in breaking down proteins and relieving inflammation.
Drinking a smoothie with kale and pineapple is an effortless, delicious way to get your serving of fruits and veggies at once! The addition of pineapple helps mask the bitter flavor of the kale, making it much more pleasant for you to consume.
A smoothie with kale is an energizing and nutritious breakfast or snack that can be used as a replacement for meals when on a weight loss plan. It is low in calories and packed with protein, fiber and essential nutrients to support a balanced diet.
This smoothie is an ideal alternative to sugary sodas or juices that contain added sugars and processed ingredients. It provides a great source of potassium and magnesium, both essential for electrolyte balance.
Sweeteners:
For this recipe, you can sweeten it with honey, agave, dates, date syrup or maple syrup. Alternatively, you could mix and match sweeteners to achieve your desired sweetness level; however be mindful that too much honey may lead to oversweetness for some people.
3. Beet and Berry Smoothie
Ingredients:
Beets and berries make an amazing combination in this nutritious smoothie! Packed full of vitamin C, antioxidants and fiber, it’s also an ideal way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Nutritional Benefits:
Beets are low in calories and a great source of folate (essential for pregnant women), potassium, vitamins B6, B3 and K which all help lower blood pressure. Furthermore, beets contain phytonutrients which could aid in treating diverticulitis as well as increasing good cholesterol levels among those who eat them.
Fruit:
You can customize this berry beet smoothie to include any combination of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries or cranberries. Fresh berries are best but frozen may also be used if available.
Yogurt:
For this recipe, I used Greek yogurt; however, regular works just as well. Vegans can substitute non-dairy milk or tofu in place of the yogurt for extra protein and calcium.
Frozen Banana:
When making this smoothie with bananas, freezing the fruit prior to blending can help thicken the smoothie and ensure it remains cold for longer.
Tips and Variations:
For a creamy texture, you could also try adding dairy-free butter flavor to the smoothie. It usually comes in powder or extract form so you can add it to the blender before adding all other ingredients for an irresistibly creamy taste.
4. Mango Spinach Smoothie
This delicious Mango Spinach Smoothie is packed with super foods like mango and spinach – packed full of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Perfect for breakfast on-the-go, post-workout refreshment or midafternoon pick-me-up!
Recipe Ingredients
This green smoothie is packed with spinach, mango and banana for a tasty and nutritious start to your day. Plus it’s vegan-friendly, gluten free, dairy free and grain free!
Nutritional Benefits of Spinach and Mango
Spinach is an excellent source of fiber which aids digestion. Plus, it helps absorb iron – great news for those who struggle to get enough iron in their diets!
Furthermore, spinach is high in vitamin C which aids the absorption of iron.
Fruit is the ideal addition to this smoothie, providing sweetness, texture and refreshing coolness. Perfect for a summer lunch or brunch!
Variations and Customizations
Frozen mango is ideal for this smoothie, but fresh can also be used if you have it on hand. You may omit the banana for less creaminess or substitute another frozen fruit for sweetness.
Add a scoop of protein powder for extra protein and essential nutrients. A handful of chia seeds is an excellent addition for fiber and plant-based protein sources.
Make this smoothie in advance and store it airtight in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
5. Zucchini and Kiwi Smoothie
Nutritional Benefits
Zucchini and Kiwi Smoothie is an easy, delicious smoothie packed with antioxidants. Additionally, it’s low in sugar – ideal for those trying to cut back on added sweeteners.
Recipe Ingredients and Instructions
To make this smoothie, simply place all ingredients into a blender or high-powered food processor. Then you’ll add about one cup of water or milk and pulse until creamy.
You may wish to add a touch of honey for sweetness. Alternatively, you could also add some nut butter or frozen strawberries for additional flavor and texture.
Frozen fruit is the ideal addition to a smoothie, as it adds thickness and substance without needing to thaw out in the fridge before enjoying your delicious beverage!
Variation:
For even more customization and variety, swap the kiwi for another fruit like a banana. You could also try adding extra ingredients like some ice, spinach or protein powder to increase its protein content and create a healthier option for you and your family!
Add a bit of almond milk, coconut milk or oat milk for extra protein and healthy omega 3s. Or add some chia seeds for extra fiber and crunch! Granola is also great to add for extra nutrition!
6. Cauliflower and Blueberry Smoothie
Recipe Ingredients
This nutrient-rich smoothie boasts all of the advantages of cauliflower and blueberries. Plus, it’s low in carbs – making it a perfect option for anyone watching their carb intake.
Nutritional Benefits of Cauliflower
Cauliflower contains antioxidants which help your body combat inflammation, decreasing the risk of cancer and other illnesses. Furthermore, cauliflower helps control cholesterol levels by decreasing triglycerides in your bloodstream.
It also benefits your heart health with high levels of potassium, which lowers blood pressure and encourages optimal circulation. Furthermore, it contains sulforaphane compound which enhances DNA methylation for improved gene expression.
Furthermore, this vegetable is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, K and B6, as well as calcium, iron and magnesium for good health.
Cauliflower contains calcium which can increase bone density, helping prevent osteoporosis and other related issues. Furthermore, vitamin K in cauliflower strengthens your bones by encouraging bone formation, keeping blood clotting smooth and shielding them from oxidative damage.
Cauliflower is a low-calorie, low-fat and high-fiber vegetable that packs a nutritional punch. Plus, its versatility allows for use in soups, stir-fries, casseroles and other dishes as an ingredient.
Cauliflower is an ideal weight-loss food, thanks to its fiber that slows digestion, promotes satiety and regulates blood sugar and insulin levels. This effect is especially noticeable when added to recipes that include rice such as white rice noodles or sushi rolls.
7. Green Tea and Spinach Smoothie
This Green Tea and Spinach Smoothie is an irresistibly refreshing way to start your day. Packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory omega 3 fats from flax and hemp seeds, as well as phytonutrients from fresh greens, it’s sure to please even the pickiest palate!
Recipe Ingredients and Instructions
Banana, kiwi, almond milk and spinach make the base ingredients of this smoothie. Feel free to customize it further by adding dates or another preferred sweetener.
Nutritional Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support heart health. It provides potassium, inorganic nitrate to regulate blood pressure, as well as folate to combat anemia.
Spinach is an excellent source of iron, which your body requires for making red blood cells and transporting oxygen throughout various organs. A lack of iron can lead to anemia, leaving you feeling weak and dizzy.
Eye Health
The lutein and zeaxanthin found in spinach help protect your eyes from macular degeneration, the progressive loss of vision that occurs as you age. Plus, it contains Vitamin A which improves vision.
Weight Loss
Spinach helps your body burn fat more efficiently and suppresses appetite, leading to weight loss. This occurs by raising leptin levels – a hormone which decreases hunger and increases feelings of satiety.
Skin & Hair:
Greens are an excellent way to hydrate your skin and minimize the appearance of wrinkles. They contain lutein, an antioxidant that enhances hydration and elasticity while making skin appear younger. Plus, greens also contain Vitamin C which aids collagen production for softness and firmness in all types of skin types.
8. Sweet Potato and Pear Smoothie
This cozy fall smoothie is made with ripe pears, sweet potato and ginger for a comforting kick – ideal as breakfast, snack or dessert!
Nutritional Benefits of Ingredients
This sweet potato and pear smoothie is packed with essential nutrients for a healthy heart and immune system. Plus, it’s high in fiber which can help regulate blood sugar levels (release sugar slowly into the body), maintain blood pressure levels and reduce digestive inflammation.
Pears and sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts immunity, strengthens arteries and lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, this meal provides potassium which may lower blood pressure and protect against stroke.
Delicious and Easy to Prepare
This recipe is so straightforward it’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. It’s thick, creamy and incredibly satisfying – try serving it with hemp seeds, granola, chia seeds or anything else you have on hand!
Variation Tips and Customizations
Use a blender for creating an ultra-smooth texture when blending fruits and veggies. Do you don’t own one? Alternatively, try using an immersion blender or food processor instead.
Add spices or herbs for flavor and interest if desired. Spices such as cinnamon, ginger, turmeric or cardamom can add a subtle warmth to the smoothie. Herbs like basil, mint or sage provide an herbal kick.
For a creamier smoothie, add extra milk or yogurt. Additionally, you can mix in some protein powder for extra protein boost.
9. Celery and Pineapple Smoothie
Recipe Ingredients
For this nutritious and refreshing smoothie, we’ve used only four readily-available ingredients: pineapple (peeled), celery, ginger, and parsley. Not only is it easy to make, but we think it’s one of the healthiest green smoothie recipes around!
Nutritional Benefits of Celery and Pineapple
Combining celery and pineapple in this smoothie offers many health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health, stronger immunity, improved digestion, and more. Plus they’re packed full of vitamins A, C, and K for extra nutrition!
Furthermore, they’re high in fiber which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer. Furthermore, these superfoods contain phytochemicals and antioxidants that may protect the body against oxidative stress or chronic disease.
Pineapple and celery are both diuretics, helping to expel retained fluids, reduce swelling, and support weight loss. Furthermore, these fruits and veggies are packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
Drinking celery juice on an empty stomach is recommended, and it can also aid in relieving bowel movements. However, if you are new to drinking celery juice, be aware of its strong flavor at first; try cutting it with some apple or cucumber slices to help ease the transition.
Celery juice’s low sodium content makes it a great addition to any diet, particularly if you are already following a salt-restricted one. However, be mindful of excessive sodium consumption as this may aggravate certain health conditions and raise your risk for heart disease and diabetes.
10. Tomato and Basil Smoothie
Nutritional Benefits
Tomato and basil are packed with essential vitamins and minerals for your wellbeing. Tomatoes in particular contain antioxidant lycopene, which fights inflammation and has been linked to lower heart disease risk. Furthermore, tomatoes provide ample amounts of vitamin C, potassium and folate.
This Tomato and Basil Smoothie is an incredibly simple, healthy recipe that’s ideal for a morning meal or quick grab-and-go. All you need are some ingredients – enjoy this tasty drink in no time!
Ingredients
Tomato – Packed full of Vitamin C, Potassium and Folate, tomatoes are an antioxidant powerhouse that offers powerful protection against heart disease and cancer. Just one serving provides around 40% of your daily recommended intake for these essential nutrients.
Basil: This herb contains eugenol, which inhibits COX2, and has been shown to help prevent and treat conditions like heartburn and stress. Additionally, basil acts as an anti-inflammatory and supports digestion, liver function and brain health.
Tips for Customization & Variation
Try adding carrots or beets to your smoothie to increase its antioxidants and flavor. Chia seeds can also be used to add more protein or healthy fats by replacing some of the hemp seeds in your recipe.
For a delicious smoothie that changes with the seasons, you can substitute strawberries for tomatoes. Strawberries are one of the most beloved spring fruits and can easily be added to this delicious recipe for an added kick of flavor.
11. Cabbage and Mango Smoothie
The Perfect Cabbage and Mango Smoothie
This nutritious smoothie is packed with vitamin C from the mangoes. Additionally, it includes healthy fats from hemp hearts, a small amount of protein, as well as water for hydration – making it the ideal breakfast, lunch or snack!
This smoothie is an incredibly simple and convenient recipe to have in your fridge for meal prep, plus it’s an excellent way to incorporate more veggies into your diet.
Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage
Cabbage is an abundant source of vitamin C, providing 56% of the daily value per cup (89 g). Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants which may prevent cancer and heart disease.
Additionally, bananas contain high amounts of fiber which supports digestive health and regular bowel movements.
Variations
Add some spinach or kale, protein powder and/or flax seeds to this smoothie for extra nutrition! If you prefer a sweeter drink, substitute some of the milk with pineapple juice or orange juice.
Adapted from Marla Noriega
This smoothie is great for breakfast, lunch or a snack! You can customize it with various fruits and veggies like spinach or kale to get more produce into your diet! For an extra protein kick and nutritional boost, add protein powder, maca powder or other superfood powders like spirulina for extra nutrients and minerals.
12. Carrot and Orange Smoothie
Carrot and Orange Smoothie
A refreshing and healthy beverage to hydrate your body with carrots, oranges and ginger. Enjoy it as a snack, breakfast or post-workout recovery drink!
Nutritional Benefits of Carrots and Oranges
Carrots contain antioxidants which are beneficial for your health. They shield cells from free radicals that could cause inflammation and raise cancer risks. Furthermore, the potassium found in carrots helps lower blood pressure and protect against heart disease.
Vitamin C in carrots and oranges is essential for supporting your immune system, while also keeping skin hydrated to reduce wrinkles and acne.
Beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, helps you see clearly and promotes eye health. Furthermore, it can strengthen bones.
Lycopene in red carrots is an antioxidant that may protect against heart disease and cancer. Additionally, it may help regulate cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure.
Carrots contain fiber which helps regulate digestion and encourage regularity in bowels. Furthermore, carrots may reduce obesity risks.
Carrots contain potassium that helps you stay physically and mentally energized. Plus, their magnesium content has been known to enhance brain function and strengthen bone health.
Ginger adds an irresistible flavor and kick to this smoothie. Before using it in the blender, finely mince or grate your fresh ginger root.
To make the ideal juice, blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until thoroughly smooth. You may then strain through either a fine mesh sieve or use cheesecloth to strain out any pulp from the mixture.
13. Avocado and Cucumber Smoothie
This smoothie is packed with refreshing cucumber, tart apple, protein-rich milk and Greek yogurt, and heart-healthy avocado for an ultra nutritious treat that won’t just satisfy your hunger but keep you feeling full all day long! Add a hint of ginger for extra flavor and digestive benefits too, and voila – an irresistibly refreshing drink that will satisfy all your hunger pangs!
This drink’s nutrition will keep you feeling energized throughout the morning. It also makes an ideal breakfast, lunch or post-workout snack for those seeking to fuel their bodies with essential nutrients.
Cucumbers are an excellent source of potassium, which regulates fluid balance and nerve function as well as muscle contractions and blood pressure. Furthermore, they contain vitamins A and C, iron, magnesium and calcium.
Additionally, fiber is an essential nutrient for gut health and promotes satiety. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevents overeating.
Vitamin C: This essential nutrient aids in the formation of new blood vessels, cartilage and muscle tissue as well as wound healing. Furthermore, it protects cells against free radical damage.
Avocado: Packed full of protein, heart-healthy monounsaturated fat and fiber to help stabilize blood sugar levels, avocado is also an excellent way to get your omega 3s and folic acid intake.
Tips for Customization and Variation:
You can increase the protein in this smoothie by adding more yogurt or milk, or using a whey or pea protein powder. You could also add fresh fruit like blueberries for extra sweetness.
14. Broccoli and Apple Smoothie
Recipe Ingredients and Instructions
Broccoli is an incredibly nutrient-rich superfood with many health benefits. Not only does it aid in weight management, immune function, eye and skin health, healthy bones – but it can also slow the aging process, reduce inflammation levels and enhance digestive wellbeing too!
Vitamin C, an important antioxidant that prevents collagen breakdown, shields your eyes from damage and boosts immunity, is high in this fruit. Furthermore, it contains fiber and dietary protein which promote satiety and keeps you fuller for longer periods of time.
Apples provide sweetness and a host of beneficial nutrients, including fibre, Vitamin C, antioxidants and flavanoids. Furthermore, they are an excellent source of folic acid – essential for pregnant women.
Tips for Customization and Variation
For a creamy smoothie, use a high-speed blender. If the consistency becomes too thick or thin for your tastes, add more water if necessary.
Variation: Try adding additional fruits like raspberries or mangoes to this smoothie for a fun twist. Or top off with some goji berries or chia seeds for extra texture and nutrition!
Smoothies are the ideal way to enjoy a nutritious meal on-the-go! They’re easy to make, quick, nourishing and delicious – ideal for breakfast or as an afternoon snack when you need something quick yet filling. You can even make extra and freeze it for later when you need an energy boost!
15. Carrot and Ginger Smoothie
Ingredients
This Carrot and Ginger Smoothie is a delightful, healthy beverage packed with antioxidants and probiotics. Not only that, but it’s anti-inflammatory too – providing your body with essential nutrients to get back on track!
Nutritional Benefits of Carrot and Ginger
The juice from carrots and ginger contains vitamin A and C, which help form white blood cells that destroy disease-causing bacteria. Plus, these vegetables contain plenty of antioxidants which protect against oxidative damage. Moreover, this combination may reduce the risk of certain cancers as well as improve heart health.
Ginger and carrots are also packed with essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin E, copper, zinc and B vitamins. Furthermore, they provide dietary fiber as well as folate.
Making the right fruit choices for your smoothies can make all the difference in how they turn out! Fruits such as banana, mango and pineapple all work well together when combined with carrots; bananas provide sweetness without overwhelming the smoothie while mango and pineapple add creaminess and richness to your drink.
Lemon Juice
Fresh-squeezed lemon juice is ideal for this smoothie, but if you don’t have any on hand, jarred lemon juice works just as well! It adds an enjoyable tartness to the flavor.
Almond Milk
Unsweetened almond milk is ideal for this recipe as it offers the most flavor and texture, but vanilla almond milk can also be used if you want to add some sweetness. Just remember that the taste will differ slightly from using plain almond milk so be sure to give it a taste test first before using it in this recipe!
