Name: Tropical Green Smoothie
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 banana; 1 cup mango (fresh or frozen, cubed); 1 cup pineapple (fresh or frozen, cubed); 2 inch-piece ginger (thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 4 cups dark leafy greens (such as kale, spinach, cilantro, parsley); 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal; 1 cup water; ice (to taste)

This fresh and fruity tropical green smoothie is made with mango, pineapple and a little kick of ginger.

Smoothies are my favorite way to start each day. Ideal for using up whatever fresh fruit and veggies I have on hand, I love mixing and matching different flavor combinations to switch up my morning smoothie all year round.

Whether it’s a strawberry smoothie in the summer, a pumpkin smoothie in the fall, a citrus smoothie in the winter or a minty green shamrock smoothie in the spring, there are no limits to how you can create your daily smoothie.

What Are the Health Benefits of Smoothies? Unlike juicing which removes the high-fiber pulp, smoothies are packed with nutrients because you get the health benefits of whole fruits and vegetables. In fact, blending produce into a smoothie preserves all the fiber plus a major boost of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals which often live in the fruit skins and pith.

In the winter months when fresh produce isn’t as easy to find and can be a bit cost-prohibitive, I turn to frozen fruit. For this tropical smoothie, I use frozen mango and pineapple but feel free to use any frozen fruit you have on hand. The ginger gives a little spicy kick to balance out the juicy, sweet tropical fruit.

For another Vitamin C boost and a little acidity to balance the sweetness of the fruit, I squeeze in the juice of half a lemon. I’m convinced this is also why I haven’t gotten sick yet this winter!

Before blending I always add in about a cup of water. You’re welcome to use milk but if you want to keep it vegan stick with water.

What is The Best Blender for Smoothies?

I am a long-time Blendtec lover. In fact, I’ve blended over 2,000 smoothies in my Blendtec! It’s a workhorse and will last you years.

Can I Prepare This Smoothie Ahead of Time?

While I don’t recommend blending the smoothe before you plan to enjoy, a great tip is to divide the ingredients between four plastic resealable bags and freezing them until you’re ready to blend. Add lemon juice and water before blending.

Want to change your smoothie up a bit? Try adding in parsley, cilantro or fresh mint. Herbs add a ton of flavor and added nutrients to any smoothie

Your straw is waiting.