Today is a great day to convert those “non-green veggie lovers” in the family to “going green”! St. Patrick’s Day has always been my favorite day to get the kids and other non-green lovers to indulge in a tasty green drink! You won’t have to present it as a “healthy” drink, but rather a holiday celebration and even the little Leprechaun’s in your home may find it exciting.
This is a favorite in my household for its burst of spring freshness the fresh mint leaves give, along with the wonderful sweetness of fresh pineapple.
Add in greens (for the festive color), avocado for its creamy texture, and both for their amazing blend of vitamin C, B’s, and many other nutrients. Pineapple contains bromelain which is a natural anti-inflammatory; add these with plain Greek yogurt for protein and healthy probiotics and you have an energizing drink for the whole family to enjoy before they set out for the day.
Hint: If you or the kids are new to green smoothies, leave out the stronger flavors of kale and just add a little baby spinach and they can enjoy the sweet flavor of the pineapple & berries!
Pineapple Green Smoothie
Ingredients
4-5 ice cubes (optional for thicker, chilled smoothie)
½ fresh pineapple, peeled (or 1 cup of frozen pineapple)
4-6 medium strawberries or frozen cherries
½ avocado, pitted and peeled
1/2 bunch (1-2 cups) fresh spinach or Kale
small handful fresh mint
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or ½ cup yogurt and ½ almond milk or milk of choice for thinner consistency)
**Add a little Almond milk (or your favorite milk) or water to get desired consistency
Directions
Place all ingredients starting with the first ingredient (ice cubes first) in high powered blender and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust ingredients if needed for desired sweetness and flavor.
Yields = 2 medium drinks
