I resisted this idea for a long while because I don't have a Vitamix or Blend Tec blender nor do I have the $900 to purchase one. I have a decent one (Cuisinart) but I doubted whether it could make a green smoothie palatable. Would it be chunky? Would it be slimy? Would I throw up? These were the questions on my heart.
But I am happy to report that an average blender can indeed make a delicious green smoothie that does not induce vomiting or even gagging. Crucial.
Here's what I do...
1. Fill the blender with ice and water (approx. 1/4 of the container)
2. Stuff as much kale, spinach, or other green matter that you can until the blender is about 3/4 of the way full.
3. Add frozen fruit. Definitely banana because it will give you much need sweetness. My children NEVER finish a whole banana anymore. I used to make them chocke it down until I just started collecting the leftovers and tossing them in a baggie in the freezer. If you don't have that problem at your house, you can just peel a whole banana and freeze by itself. I also like frozen berries or peaches. Frozen grapes are good, too. Just whatev.
4. Add some yogurt or kefir if you like. Gives it a little creaminess but it's not essential.
5. Finally, the magic ingredient: orange juice. Especially if kale is your main green, the acidity in the OJ really mellows the strong kale flavor. Unless you like strong kale flavor in which case feel free to omit this step, too.
Blend it all on low at first and then when it has all be processed fairly well, kick it up to high for a few seconds. And then, enjoy RIGHT THEN! A cool, room temp, or warm green smoothie is just BAD. It is pond sludge in a glass. Just say no. If you can't drink it right away, stick in in the fridge until you ar ready for it. I'm not kidding.
This is such a great way to get in a lot of greens in one sitting. I'm not a big salad eater unless the salad is all fancied up with fruit and nuts and gorgonzola. I'll eat a plain salad but I'm way more likely to drink a green smoothie and this way, I get in way more nutrients than a small salad would offer.
(Are you happy now, Dianna?)
