Mango-Orange Smoothie (AKA Green Sunshine)

I know what you’re thinking: If this is a mango-orange smoothie, why isn’t it . . . orange?  Answer: Because there’s spinach in it.

Now, don’t look at me like that.  First of all, spinach has such a mild flavor that you probably won’t even notice it if you add a small handful to your favorite smoothie.  Second, spinach is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with iron, calcium, folate, and antioxidants.  Those tender little leaves are great for your bones and your heart, and tossing some into a smoothie is my favorite way to get more of them into my diet.

The first time someone suggested that I put spinach in a blender, I thought the idea was kind of bizarre.  I’ve since concluded that it’s one of the best healthy-eating life hacks ever.

1. I can blend and drink a green smoothie in much less time than I would spend preparing a salad and then chasing little leaves around my plate with a fork.
2. It puts a serious dent in my fruit and veggie quota for the day, yet it tastes like a frozen, fruity treat.
3. I feel healthier and more energetic on days when I’ve had a green smoothie.  I often make one right before my kids get home from school, so I can sip it while they enjoy an after-school snack.

I found this particular smoothie on a blog last year, and I really wish I could remember the blog’s name so I could give the author credit for it.  This recipe holds a place of honor in my green smoothie rotation because it contains just five, inexpensive ingredients that I nearly always have on hand.  It also has bold flavor (thanks to the orange juice and mango), so I can toss in some extra spinach or use a banana that’s a little overripe, and the smoothie will still taste delicious.

The smoothie’s official name is Mango-Orange (because I’m practical, and I like recipes names to tell you what to expect), but in my head I call it “Green Sunshine” because the citrusy flavor is bright and invigorating.  And because the name makes me happy.

Kids + Green Smoothies

At this point, you may be thinking, “I’m up for trying something new, but how will I persuade my kids to drink a green smoothie?”  Here are a few tips that might help:

1. Add just a few spinach leaves to a smoothie recipe they already like, and blend the spinach in really well (it might help to blend it with the liquid ingredients first, then add the other ingredients and blend again).  After your kids have tried some of the smoothie, ask if they can guess what the secret ingredient is.  Or, if you think that news won’t go over well, you could just keep that little secret to yourself for now.
2. Add a small handful of spinach to a smoothie to make it nice and green (this works better if the other ingredients are yellowish, since green plus red or purple equals brown), and call it a Hulk Smoothie.  After they take a few sips, tell them to check their muscles to see if they’re getting bigger and stronger.  Are your kids not into The Hulk?  Try calling it a Shrek Smoothie, a Creeper Smoothie, or any other green character they’re into.
3. If all else fails, blend up a green smoothie you think they’ll like, and serve it in opaque cups with lids and straws.  If the smoothie is yummy, they probably won’t lift the lid to see what color it is.

Craving another refreshing smoothie?

Creamy Blueberry Smoothie

Blueberry Pear Smoothie