Get fruits, vegetables, protein, and plenty of flavor with this Avocado Smoothie!
Avocados have got to be one of the most versatile fruits around. We often find them in salads or spread on toast. Who can forget that they’re the main ingredient in guacamole? That alone is enough to make most of us fond of avocados. But have you ever entertained the possibility of an avocado smoothie? Considering the versatility of avocados, it’s a natural fit.
Avocados have been growing in popularity since the French introduced them to Vietnam in the 1940s. They soon became a staple in Southeast Asia and have since gone global. In the Philippines, there is even avocado ice cream. That makes an avocado smoothie sound a little more natural, doesn’t it?
With an avocado smoothie, you get a little bit of everything. There are fruits, vegetables, and plenty of natural sweetness. You also have the option of throwing some protein powder into the mix. The result is a delightfully sweet smoothie that almost has the creamy texture of a milkshake. It’s a safe bet that you’ve never tasted anything quite like an avocado smoothie.
Is This Avocado Smoothie Healthy?
Yes. There is a wide array of health benefits in avocados. For starters, avocados help you feel full longer, which can aid in managing your body weight. They are also a source of healthy fats. This recipe calls for pineapple and spinach, which both add vitamin C along with fiber and other vitamins and minerals. Meanwhile, the banana (just like the pineapple) adds natural sweetness and even more fiber. If desired, you can even leave out the maple syrup. When all is said and done, you’re getting a smoothie that’s low in sodium and high in fiber and calcium.
What Else Can I Add?
As long as there is room in your blender, you can add just about anything you want to an avocado smoothie. We suggest a couple of scoops of protein powder, but the possibilities are endless. A little bit of mint, basil, or lemon juice would elevate the flavor. Some folks like to add a little crunch with granola, cacao nibs, or chia seeds. Even some coconut flakes or cashew butter can enhance an avocado smoothie.
It’s also fine to swap some of the ingredients for others. For instance, using mango instead of pineapple, or perhaps both. Rather than coconut milk, oat milk or almond milk work just fine. If you don’t like spinach, other leafy greens such as kale or arugula would work.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
It’s always best to drink a smoothie right away. However, you can store leftovers in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 day. You can also try freezing this smoothie into ice cubes or popsicles for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Smoothies are often ideal for snacks or a healthy dessert, but they can also be a great way to start the day as part of your breakfast. Consider drinking one as a complement to Spinach Scrambled Eggs or a Frittata. Smoothies can also be a great side for a Gluten-Free Pancake Parfait With Blueberries And Yogurt or a simple, healthy breakfast like Overnight Oats With Greek Yogurt. If you really want to keep things simple, just make an easy Omelette with an avocado smoothie on the side.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cubed, frozen pineapple
- 2 cups packed fresh spinach or 1 cup frozen spinach
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 frozen banana
- 3/4 cup light coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Pinch sea salt
- 8 ice cubes
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder optional
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the frozen pineapple, spinach, avocado, banana, coconut milk, lime juice and zest, maple syrup, sea salt, ice cubes, and protein powder, if desired. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust with more maple syrup if needed. If the smoothie is too thick, add a bit more coconut milk. Blend again.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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