Banana Bread Green Smoothie

A green smoothie can be a little intimidating, right? Like you know it’s going to be good for you and good for your body… but what if it tastes like straight up grass?!

Well- I feel you and I understand. When I was first getting into making smoothies- greens were intimidating. That was until I discovered this smoothie. The smoothie to top all smoothies: the Banana Bread Green Smoothie!

This smoothie is for anyone who’s nervous to drink a green smoothie. Not only do you get your dose of leafy greens, it literally tastes like fresh baked banana bread. I promise you- you are going to like this one!

Green Smoothie Tips:

???? Try Spinach first.

If you’re new to adding leafy greens to your smoothie, I recommend trying spinach first. Spinach has a milder, less bitter flavor than kale and you can’t really taste it at all in smoothies.

Once you’re used to drinking a green drink you can give it a go with kale. Both spinach and kale are awesome for nutrients, but kale has a higher concentration of them over spinach.

???? When you’re ready for kale- reach for curly kale first.

Just like the spinach trick, start with a less bitter version of kale when you begin adding it to your smoothies. Curly kale is less bitter than lacinto or tuscan kale, but you’re still getting your dose of nutrients. In general- the darker the green, the more bitter it will be.

???? Get organic greens when possible.

Seeking out organic greens if possible is key to avoiding chemicals/additives that have been used in the growing of the produce. I’m always on the hunt for organic greens, but I know sometimes this isn’t always possible from a logistical or financial perspective.

If you can’t get organic- try washing the greens in a big bowl of water with white vinegar and really scrub them down.

Also, check out if you have any local organic farms near you. I’ve been living in Fredericksburg with my boyfriend on and off for a few years and only a few months ago did I find a nearby organic farmer from doing a simple google search. I’m still wondering why I didn’t do this sooner!

???? Do smoothie prep at night if you’re crunched for time during the day.

This is one of my keys for success- making my smoothies at night! I do this in one of two ways:

1. Make the smoothie in the evening and store it in a hydroflask in the fridge overnight.
2. Make the smoothie in the evening and pour into a glass, airtight container, leaving some room at the top. Freeze overnight. In the morning, let the smoothie defrost for a few hours before drinking.

I know this kinda sounds a little crazy, but prepping my smoothies at night has made such a difference for me! I’m literally obsessed with the Hydro Flask. Still in awe of how well it keeps a smoothie overnight.

Now… let’s get to that recipe!

Banana Bread Green Smoothie

• 2 cups leafy greens (spinach or kale)
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (I like almond)
• 1 large frozen banana
• 1 cup ice
• 2 tbsp rolled oats
• 2 tbsp walnuts
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
• dash of himalayan salt
• dash of liquid stevia to sweeten (optional)

1. Combine everything in a high speed blender.
2. Blend until fully mixed.

If you make this smoothie, tag me on Instagram! I’d love to sweet how you’re drinking it!

xo,

Lauren

If you’d like more green smoothie inspiration, this Tropical Green Smoothie bowl is SO good!