The Green Machine

I had this Apple, Spinach, Cucumber & Mint Smoothie on a sunny, 86° day. Before you write this off for its quite green color, try this hydrating drink on a hot, summer day.  I originally made this with kale, more celery and no mint, and it tasted like I was drinking grass; the smoothie turned out waaaay too green. However, baby spinach has a much milder taste, and the mint added a fresh kick. When I make this again, I would add frozen banana instead of the yogurt. This was a different take and a welcomed departure from the classic fruit smoothie. Before you dismiss the green smoothie for its color, give it a try!

Ingredients (makes 1 smoothie).

• 1/2 large apple (like Gala or Fuji), cored and peeled
• 1/4 medium cucumber, peeled and seeded
• 1/4 c packed spinach
• 2 inch small celery stalk, chopped
• 5-6 mint leaves
• 1/2 frozen banana (–or– 2 generous spoonfuls of nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt for dairy option)
• 1/4 c water (or coconut water!)
• 3-4 large ice cubes

Directions.

1. Chop apple and cucumber into 1/2 inch pieces.
2. Combine all ingredients in blender. Blend until smooth.
3. Transfer smoothie to a glass and enjoy!

Adapted from “Kale, Apple and Cucumber Smoothie” in Giada’s Feel Good Food.

Shown with nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt, but I enjoyed the sweetness that the banana added much more when I made this a second time.