Green smoothie

Green Smoothie with Spinach and Sweet Apples – A Burst of Vitamins

The smoothie season is always present in our lives, regardless of the time of year. Especially in summer and fall, when fruits are at their peak, but this refreshing smoothie is also perfect for winter, providing us with essential vitamins and nutrients to keep us energized and healthy. Therefore, today I invite you to discover a simple and delicious green smoothie recipe that can quickly become your favorite!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2

The History and Benefits of the Recipe

The origins of smoothies are lost in time, with roots in various cultures that have used blending fruits and vegetables to create nourishing drinks. This green smoothie, with spinach and sweet apples, is not only a delicious choice but also an extremely healthy one. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, while apples provide a boost of antioxidants and fiber. By combining these ingredients, we create a drink that not only refreshes us but also supports the immune system.

Ingredients

- 2 handfuls of fresh spinach leaves (approximately 60-80 g)
- 2 ripe and sweet red apples
- Juice of one lemon
- 1 teaspoon of honey (optional, depending on desired sweetness)
- Approximately 150 ml of water (or as needed to achieve desired consistency)
- Optional: a few white grapes for added flavor

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

1. Wash the ingredients: Start by rinsing the spinach leaves thoroughly under cold running water to remove impurities. Similarly, wash the apples but do not peel them, as the skin contains many fibers and valuable nutrients.

2. Prepare the fruits: Cut the apples into quarters, removing the core. There’s no need to peel them, and the skin will give the smoothie an interesting texture and vibrant color.

3. Blending: In a blender, add the spinach leaves, apple quarters, lemon juice, and honey. Start blending at low speed, gradually adding water. Continue blending until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer a thinner smoothie, add more water.

4. Adding grapes: If you want to experiment with flavors, add a few white grapes to the blender and blend for a few more seconds to incorporate them into the drink.

5. Serving: Pour the smoothie into chilled glasses. You can add a few apple slices or spinach leaves for decoration. Enjoy immediately to benefit from all the vitamins and minerals!

Practical Tips

- Choose fresh produce: Use fresh apples and spinach for a more intense flavor and a pleasant texture.
- Customize the recipe: Experiment with other fruits, such as bananas or kiwis, to add various flavors and nutrients.
- Ice for a refreshing smoothie: If you want a cooler and more refreshing smoothie, add a few ice cubes to the blender.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is a good option. Make sure to let it thaw and drain before using.

2. Is honey necessary?
No, honey is optional. If the apples are sweet enough, you can skip it.

3. Can I add yogurt?
Absolutely! Adding natural yogurt will make the smoothie creamier and add extra protein.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This green smoothie recipe contains approximately 150 calories per serving, depending on the amount of honey and water used. It is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, positively impacting digestion and the immune system.

Possible Variations

- Avocado Green Smoothie: Add half an avocado for a creamier texture and additional healthy fat benefits.
- Protein Powder Green Smoothie: If you want to turn the smoothie into a complete meal, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder.

Serving Suggestions

This smoothie pairs perfectly with a healthy breakfast, such as oatmeal with fruits, or can be enjoyed as a revitalizing snack throughout the day. It also complements well with a warm drink, such as green tea or mint tea, to create a pleasant contrast.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I invite you to try this simple and healthy green smoothie recipe. It’s a wonderful way to start your day or to energize yourself during a break! Enjoy!