Green Breakfast Smoothie

Why I Love This Recipe

Every morning I get up early, hike with our dog Cosmo, and come home to make a smoothie. It’s become such a consistent part of my routine that I barely think about it anymore. Everything goes in the blender and I’m out the door. A few reasons this smoothie has earned a permanent spot in my rotation:

• The avocado makes it incredibly creamy and adds healthy fats that actually keep you full. It’s the reason this smoothie holds up as a real breakfast rather than just a snack.
• The spinach disappears completely. Between the banana and avocado, you’d never know it was there. It doesn’t taste green in the slightest.
• It’s genuinely customizable. The base recipe is simple but the optional add-ins let you build it into whatever your morning and body needs.

Ingredients

Avocado: one whole avocado gives this smoothie its creamy, thick texture and healthy fats. This is what sets it apart from a typical fruit smoothie.

Banana: fresh or frozen both work. Frozen banana makes the smoothie thicker and colder without needing as much ice. If you have ripe bananas on hand, this (and these 15 recipes for ripe bananas) is a great way to use them.

Fresh spinach: one large handful. It blends completely smooth and you won’t taste it at all.

Milk of choice: I usually use oat milk or almond milk, but any milk works here. Dairy, coconut, or whatever you have in the fridge is fine.

Ice: a handful to keep it cold and frosty. Skip it if you’re using a frozen banana.

Smoothie Add-Ins and Swaps

One of the best things about this smoothie is how easy it is to build on. A few favorites:

• Collagen peptides or vanilla protein powder: turns this into a more complete breakfast with added protein. Vanilla protein powder adds a little extra sweetness too.
• Chia or hemp seeds: a tablespoon of either adds omega-3s and fiber without changing the flavor at all.
• Bee pollen: a teaspoon sprinkled in for an extra nutrient boost.
• A date or a drizzle of honey: if you like your smoothie a little sweeter. Especially useful if your banana isn’t very ripe.
• Swap the spinach: kale works if you want something earthier, or you can do half and half.

If you love avocado as a smoothie base, my Vanilla Avocado Greens Smoothie is another great one to try!

How to Make a Green Breakfast Smoothie

Add everything to the blender in order. Liquids first, then spinach, then avocado and banana, then ice on top. Starting with the liquid helps the blender run smoothly without getting stuck. Blend until completely smooth, about 60 seconds depending on your blender. Pour and drink immediately for the best texture.

Storage

This smoothie is best fresh. If you need to make it ahead, blend everything except the ice, pour into a sealed jar, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or re-blend before drinking. The avocado can cause it to brown slightly overnight, but it’s still fine to drink. It just won’t be as pretty.