This simple green smoothie is made with yogurt, mango, pineapple, and spinach for a healthy drink that is full of vitamins and nutrients. But it tastes like a tropical vacation!

Start with the Greens

To make a green smoothie you obviously need greens. I have always stuck to spinach. It is less intense than kale and the taste can be easily masked. I also put in cucumbers and celery – both healthy veggies that don’t have overpowering tastes. But the recipe is fine without these additions too, so you can use what you’ve got around the house.

Add More Veggies

I usually add carrots to my smoothies. Carrots have been said to improve vision, help prevent cancer, slow the aging process, among other benefits. Another plus to adding carrots is they have a sweet taste to them. So you are getting an extra veggie in your smoothie that might actually enhance its taste.

Mix in Some Fruits

Mango and pineapple are my favorite for a green smoothie. These fruits both have powerful tastes, and this helps make the smoothie taste sweet and just like any other fruit smoothie. Plus they are delicious. And most importantly, it doesn’t require using a large amount of these fruits to mask the vegetable taste, so you are able to limit the calories and sugar content by not adding too much fruit.

Pack in Some Protein

This is one of the main reasons I’d say this is a good smoothie to “ease” you into the concept. A lot of green smoothies use high calorie protein powders and are used as meal replacements. I recommend using Greek yogurt to add protein. This makes the smoothie extra creamy without any grittiness you might get from protein powder.

Add Ice for a Thick Smoothie

Lastly, ice and water. Definitely plan to use ice cubes if you are using fresh (not frozen) fruits. If using frozen fruits you can use less ice. Also adding some water will help the smoothie blend easier.

Suggested Recipe

So those are my tips and advice for you to make your first green smoothie with! Let me know which modifications you choose for yours and how you like it! And see below for the specific recipe on how I make my usual go-to green smoothie.