Green Monster Smoothie

I like my smoothies extra thick and creamy--that way they are spoonable and satisfy like a meal--so the frozen banana is key. Almond butter provides exceptional flavor and protein, although peanut butter is a fine substitute. Spirulina provides a monster nutritional punch, but the smoothie is healthy and delicious without, so I list that as optional. If you are new to green smoothies, begin with one cup of packed spinach, and work up to two cups and a variety of greens if you wish. When the weather outside is warm, blending four or five ice cubes into the mix makes the smoothie extra refreshing!

Yields one 16 ounce smoothie or two 8-ounce servings.

Ingredients

3/4 cup almond milk (feel free to choose your favorite milk)
1-2 cups packed greens (spinach and kale are great choices)
1 1/2 frozen bananas, chopped or broken into chunks
1/2 cup frozen blueberries
2 tablespoons almond butter
1 teaspoon spirulina (optional)
Other optional ingredients: 1/8 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 4-5 ice cubes

Add all the ingredients to your blender, and blend until thoroughly mixed.
Depending on the strength of your blender, you may want to first blend the greens (roughly chop or tear any big pieces) with the milk. Then, add the remaining ingredients, in the order listed, blending as you go, so as not to overload a blender with a less powerful motor. I find that frozen bananas will get stuck in some blenders if there is not sufficient liquid. The add-as-you-go approach will help incorporate everything without having to add more liquid–important if you prefer a thick smoothie.
When adding any powdered ingredients like cinnamon or spirulina, stir them in a bit before blending so they don’t poof up and stick to the top of the blender.
Pour into a large glass or two smaller glasses and enjoy!

Sometimes, I add a sprig of mint to the smoothie. I have added parsley, but if you do so, add a very little bit the first time you try. A little bit of parsley goes a long way in a smoothie!