Medically reviewed by Shahzadi Devje, Registered Dietitian (RD) & Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)
Stay energized with this 5-minute dairy-free green smoothie recipe. It's delightfully refreshing and perfectly sweet - with no added sweeteners. Thick and creamy; made with banana, frozen pineapple chunks, spinach and wheatgrass, to create a nutrient-packed shake. What a quick, simple and delicious way to get your greens!
We adore this green smoothie recipe because we can drink our breakfast smoothie, and get a couple of servings of greens - all in one sitting.
Let's talk about something new I've been experimenting with - wheatgrass.
What is Wheat Grass?
Wheatgrass is a type of grass, parts of which are used to make medicine. It's regarded to be a concentrated source of nutrients: vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, iron, calcium, magnesium, and amino acids.
While it isn’t meant to replace eating fresh vegetables and fruits, wheatgrass can be quick nutrition in a glass. It provides numerous vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients. One of its highlights is the significant amount of chlorophyll it contains - purported to support blood purification and enhance cell function. There are also claims that chlorophyll enhances immunity and boosts energy levels.
How Confident Are We About these Claims?
Much of the research on wheatgrass has involved a small number of people, and that's made it hard to validate such claims.
I can, however, share my personal experience with wheatgrass - the aspects I notice and feel. It's been positive for me. I feel more energetic, enjoy clearer skin, and have had fewer bouts of painful joints - something I've suffered my entire life. But I've also changed my diet considerably over the last year - enjoying more plant-based foods. I like to use wheatgrass as a bonus and not as a substitute for fruits and vegetables.
But, there is something I've struggled with - the taste. Because it's intensely bitter for my liking, I've worked around it to create one delicious sweet green smoothie recipe - minus any sweeteners.
The banana and pineapple disguise the bitter taste perfectly. The other tip I've found helpful is to go easy with the amount of wheatgrass you add; start slow and build up to the quantity recommended on the package. I add a half scoop to this recipe and that's enough for me right now.
Is It Safe To Eat Wheatgrass?
Wheatgrass is generally considered safe. But, if you are allergic to wheat or grass, or have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, check in with your doctor before using wheatgrass. A heads up: avoid consuming wheatgrass if you are pregnant or nursing.
While it's not meant to replace fruits & veg, wheatgrass can be quick nutrition in a glass. Click To TweetHow To Make Green Smoothie Recipe - Step By Step
- In a high-speed blender, add milk and spinach (Image 1), followed by banana (Image 2).
- Throw in frozen pineapple chunks (Image 3), and a scoop of wheatgrass (Image 4).
- Next, add in some ice (Image 5) and blend for a few minutes until smooth and creamy (Image 6).
Other Healthy Ingredients To Add To A Green Smoothie
This smoothie is so versatile and easy to change up each morning, here are some suggestions:
- Apple
- Kiwi
- Pears
- Kale
- Celery
- Ginger
Toppings
Toppings are a fun way to add different flavours and textures plus they can give an extra boost of nutrients. I love to top mine with nuts such as almonds, cashews or hazelnuts and seeds such as chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flax seeds.
Coconut adds a delicious flavour to smoothies and so does dried fruit such as apricots or cranberries for an intense, sweet fruity flavour.
Top Tips for Making a Green Smoothie Bowl
- Although I recommend using a high-speed blender it isn't essential it just means it may take longer to blitz to a smooth consistency. You also may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times.
- You can also use frozen bananas which will give the smoothie a thicker and cooler texture.
- Get creative and choose your favourite healthy toppings.
- This smoothie is best served straight away when the fruit is fresh.
More Delicious Smoothies You Might Like:
Have you tried wheatgrass before? Would love to hear what you're favourite green smoothie is. Share in the comments below.
If you try this recipe, would love to hear from you! Leave a comment, rate it, or share a photo and hashtag with #desiliciousrd on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter! I can't wait to see your photos.
Green Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup soy milk unsweetened
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 banana ripe
- 1 cup pineapple frozen
- 1 cup ice cubes
- ½ scoop wheat grass powder
Instructions
- Add the soy milk, spinach, banana, pineapple, ice and wheatgrass in a high-speed blender and blend for one minute or until creamy in texture.
- Add your favourite toppings. I used chia seeds, mango, coconut and frozen grapes.
Notes
- Although I recommend using a high-speed blender it isn't essential. It just means it may take longer to blitz to a smooth consistency. You also may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times.
- You can also use frozen bananas which will give the smoothie a thicker and cooler texture. If you do this - leave out the ice
- Get creative and choose your favourite healthy toppings.
- If you want to make less sweet, add a dash of lemon juice. Fruits add their own natural sweetness, so use a balance of sweet and citrus fruits to achieve the sweetness you desire.
- This smoothie is best served straight away when the fruit is fresh.
Please note the nutritional analysis values are estimates and suggestions. This nutrition facts table does not know your life - your body, including your hunger and satiety cues, change daily. It's okay to eat more or less. Say no to food guilt and instead embrace mindful eating.
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Shahzadi is an award-winning registered dietitian (RD) regulated by the College of Dietitians of Ontario and certified diabetes educator (CDE), approved by the Canadian Diabetes Educator Certification Board. A YouTuber and notorious foodie, she's dedicated to helping you end your cooking wars, transform your health, and be the best version of yourself! Shahzadi is an on-air nutrition expert for CTV Your Morning and a regular contributor for Global News and other national media outlets.
Thanks for sharing this great recipe. Probably I will admit this green smoothie recipe in my home very soon.
that's wonderful to hear - enjoy!