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I used to walk to my neighborhood grocery store when I lived in Wheaton, Illinois and bring along my toddlers. I would get them donuts, and I would get a smoothie and a chocolate long john. I’m still not sure why Tennessee does not make chocolate long johns. Ok back to healthy foods. I adore the Mariano’s Kale Smoothie because it has kale so it must be healthy, but it is still sweet enough to enjoy drinking.
When I taught cooking classes for kids, I decided to try and replicate the Mariano’s smoothie using easy ingredients my students could make at home. Here’s the best version I could come up with. It’s bright in color and sweet from the apple, pineapple, and orange. The kale packs vitamins and minerals but I promise this does not taste like a garden. Happy blending!
Some helpful info……
Blender
I use my Vitamixx frequently so for me it has been worth the investment. I puree vegetables when making soup, make shakes and smoothie, and blend tomatoes when I make pasta sauce. This is the one I like best. I know several friends that get by just fine with a Ninja.
Fresh vs. Frozen
I use both fresh and frozen fruit when making smoothies. I keep frozen strawberries and frozen pineapple on hand to throw together my daughter’s favorites. When I know I will be making this smoothie, I put the grapes and banana chunks in the freezer when I get home from the grocery store. If you forget, don’t worry. Simply use what you have and add some crushed ice to make the smoothie cold.
If I was organized and type A I would premeasure my kale smoothie fruits and vegetables and put them in a container in the freezer so I can make it on a whim, but that is never going to happen with my brain.
Protein?
Yes, by all means add a scoop or two of nonfat or regular plain Greek yogurt for a boost of protein. Or you could add scoop of ground flax seed or your favorite protein powder,
Coconut Water
Coconut water adds a refreshing punch to smoothies without many added calories and sugar. Plus, coconut water has lots of nutrients like potassium. I typically buy Vita Coco brand if it is available.
Ingredients
As you can see, I had to swap canned pears for regular because they were not ripe. If you take this modification, use 3 pear slices from the can.
Also, if the store is out of frozen pineapple, you can use a tropical blend and use the pineapple or the pineapple and mango in the bag.
Ready to blend
The colder the better, but if you do not have time to freeze the grapes it still tastes great. You can add in 1/2 cup of ice if you like it super cold.
Ready to drink!
This makes 2 (8 oz) smoothies.
FAQ
What if I can’t find frozen pineapple?
As you can see from above, I used a tropical mix instead and it tasted great.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I like drinking smoothies right when I make them. This will hold up well in the fridge though for an hour or two.
Green Machine Kale Smoothie
Equipment
- 1 Blender
Ingredients
- 4 oz. coconut water
- 3/4 cup kale
- 1/2 orange, peeled
- 1/4 granny smith apple
- 1/4 pear
- 2 (2 inch) chunks frozen banana
- 1/4 cup frozen pineapple
- 1/2 cup frozen green grapes
- pinch cayenne (optional)
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients into the blender. Blend on high for 30 seconds. Add a bit more coconut water if it is too thick.
- Pour into two cups. Serve immediately.
Notes
