If your mornings need a burst of sunshine, this Green Smoothie is it. Fresh basil brings a fragrant twist to the usual green smoothie, while citrus adds a bright, tangy kick that wakes up your taste buds in the best way. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with feel-good ingredients that make you want to start the day right. Perfect for a post-workout boost, a quick breakfast, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up that tastes like pure energy in a glass.
Want more smoothies? Then try our Mixed Berry Smoothie or our Apple Pie Smoothie.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Super healthy
- Great way to start the day
- Love a green smoothie
- Filling and balanced
- Gives you a boost of energy
Helpful Items For This Recipe
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Smoothie Blender, 900W Blenders for Shakes and Smoothies, 15-Piece Personal Blender
Green Smoothie Ingredients
Ingredients
Spinach – Freeze your spinach in advance! It helps chill the smoothie.
Banana – Also try frozen mango, avocado, or pear for creaminess without the banana. They will still give you that velvety texture.
Pineapple – This is best if it is frozen; it will give the smoothie a more creamy texture.
Avocado – Lots of healthy nutrients and creaminess from the avocado.
Orange – The orange gives a good boost of vitamin C and great flavor.
Basil leaves – Is Basil too strong? Swap it for fresh mint of softer, more incredible flavor. (I had mixed feelings from my taste-testers on the basil ingredient! They were happy with mint instead!)
Milk – You can use regular milk or almond milk, or, for a less creamy texture, use 3⁄4 cup unsweetened coconut water.
Lime juice – This livens up all the flavors of the other ingredients.
Maple syrup or honey – You can keep this vegan with maple syrup or agave, too.
Ice cubes – This makes the smoothie colder.
How To Make A Green Smoothie
Add all ingredients to a blender, starting with the liquids, so it blends smoothly.
Blend on high until completely creamy and a radiant green color, about 30 seconds. (Taste and adjust: add more lime for brightness, honey for sweetness, or basil for more herbal depth.)
Pour into a frosty glass for that refreshing finish and enjoy immediately.
Recipe Pro Tips
If you want it thicker for a smoothie bowl (my FAVORITE way!) Use only 1⁄2 cup liquid and top with granola, kiwi slices, and chia seeds!
STORAGE
Refrigerator: Store any leftover smoothie in an airtight jar or bottle up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or stir before drinking. Separation is normal!
Freezer: pour the smoothie into ice cube trays or freezer-safe jars (leave some space on top). Freeze up to 2 months. When ready, blend the cubes with a splash of liquid (like coconut water or almond milk) until smooth!
Meal prep: You can prep smoothie packs by portioning out the greens, fruit, and basil in freezer bags. When ready, just add the liquid and blend—no chopping needed!
SUBSTITUTIONS & VARIATIONS
- A few slices of cucumber for spa-like freshness
- A pinch of ginger for a warming note
- A scoop of collagen or plant-based protein for extra nourishment, and/or a splash of orange juice for a bright citrus punch
- Add protein powder for a bigger hit of protein
FAQ’S
1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh? Fresh Basil gives the smoothie a bright, herbal flair, but if that’s all you have, use just a small pinch of dried basil. It’s much stronger, so a little goes a long way!
2. What greens work best in this smoothie? Spinach blends smooth and mild; kale adds more nutrients and a slightly earthy taste. You can use kale, just remove the tough stems so it blends smoothly.
3. Can I make this ahead of time? YES! Blend it the night before and refrigerate it in a sealed jar. Give it a good shake in the morning & you’re good to go!
4. What can I use instead of a banana? Try frozen mango, avocado, or pear for creaminess without the banana. They will still give you that velvety texture.
5. How do I make it colder or thicker? Use frozen fruit instead of fresh or toss in a few ice cubes before blending for a frosty finish.
WOULD YOU LIKE MORE HEALTHY BREAKFAST OPTIONS?
We love to start the day with a smoothie or a healthy twist on another recipe. Here are some of our faves.
Green Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh spinach loosely packed
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
- 1/2 ripe avocado my twist—it makes it so creamy!
- 1/2 small orange peeled
- 3-4 basil leaves adds a refreshing, herbal pop!
- 3/4 cup almond milk or a less creamy texture use 3/4 cup unsweetened coconut water
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1 tsp pure maple syrup or honey or agave for vegan
- Ice cubes optional, for extra chill and thickness
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender, starting with the liquids, so it blends smoothly.
- Blend on high until completely creamy and a radiant green color, about 30 seconds.
- Taste and adjust: add more lime for brightness, honey for sweetness, or basil for more herbal depth.
- Pour into a frosty glass for that refreshing finish and enjoy immediately.
Let us know what you think!
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