Kale may not be the first thing you think of when making a smoothie, but it’s definitely one of the best. Dark leafy greens like kale are packed with calcium in a form that is easier for the body to absorb than the calcium found in milk. And that’s just the beginning. Kale is also one of the few plants that contain iron. The phytonutrient bonus with kale is that is also includes the vitamin C needed to improve the absorption of nonheme iron. Although somewhat strong in taste, the four fruits found in this smoothie combine for a unique flavor and your blender blends everything to a smooth, creamy consistency.
- 1 cup green grapes
- 1 orange, peeled
- ½ Bartlett pear
- 1 banana, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups kale or fresh spinach
- ½ cup water (or plant based milk)
- 2 cups ice
- 1 kiwi (optional)
- 1 T Chia seeds (optional)
- 1 T Flax seeds (optional)
Directions
Place all ingredients into container and secure the lid. Select variable speed #1. Turn on machine and quickly increase speed to #10, then to High for 1 ½ minutes. Turn machine off. Serve immediately.
Makes 4 cups.
Per Serving: (1 cup) 102 calories, 2 g protein, 0 g fat, 26 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 10 mg sodium, 15.5 g (natural, unprocessed) sugar.