Green Detox Smoothie Ginger

The morning I discovered this smoothie was actually an accident. I had too many greens from my CSA box and no idea what to do with them all before they wilted.

My sister was visiting that week and watched me dump kale into a blender with genuine concern. By the third morning of me making these, she was asking if I could make enough for her too.

Ingredients

• Fresh spinach leaves: I pack these down really firmly into the measuring cup because fresh greens take up way more space than you expect
• Kale leaves: Removing the stems is non-negotiable unless you want chunks of tough fiber in your drink
• Green apple: The Granny Smith variety adds this lovely tartness that balances how earthy the greens can taste
• Ripe banana: Frozen ones make the smoothie thicker and colder without needing as much ice
• Pineapple chunks: These hide any grassy notes from the greens and add natural sweetness
• Cold water or coconut water: Coconut water adds electrolytes but plain water keeps it neutral
• Fresh lemon juice: This brightens everything and helps your body absorb the iron from the spinach
• Fresh ginger: Peel it with a spoon rather than a knife to avoid wasting any
• Chia seeds: These thicken it slightly and add omega-3s but theyre totally optional

Instructions

Prep your greens:

Wash the spinach and kale thoroughly because sand in a smoothie is the worst surprise

Load the blender:

Put the liquids in first so the blades have something to grab onto right away

Blend it up:

Start on low speed then work up to high to avoid spraying green liquid everywhere

Add ice if you want:

This makes it more refreshing but also waters it down slightly

Taste and adjust:

Sometimes it needs more lemon or a splash more liquid depending on how sweet your fruit was

Save

This recipe carried me through a particularly stressful month at work when cooking real food felt impossible. My body actually thanked me.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I add a scoop of protein powder after workouts or swap the banana for mango when I want something tropical. The base formula is forgiving.

Storage Solutions

These keep in the fridge for about a day but the texture changes. The separation is natural though, just give it a shake.

When to Drink It

Mornings are obviously ideal but I have also had this as an afternoon snack when my energy crashed. Its light enough that it never weighs you down.

• Drink it right away for the best texture
• Mason jars work great for taking it to go
• The chia seeds will thicken it if it sits too long

Save

Here is to drinking something that makes you feel like you are actually taking care of yourself.

Questions & Answers

→ What greens work best in this blend?

Spinach and kale provide a rich base, but you can swap kale with Swiss chard or extra spinach for milder flavors.

→ Can I use frozen fruits in this drink?

Yes, frozen banana and pineapple chunks are great for a chilled texture and natural sweetness.

→ How does ginger affect the taste?

Fresh ginger adds a zesty, warming spice that complements the freshness of the greens and fruit.

→ Is it necessary to add lemon juice?

Lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness, but you can adjust or omit to suit taste.

→ What liquids can be used for blending?

Cold water or unsweetened coconut water both work well, providing hydration without overpowering the flavors.

→ Can this be made ahead and stored?

Best consumed fresh for maximum flavor and nutrient retention, but storing in an airtight container for up to 24 hours is possible.