Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Prep Ingredients & Blanch Spinach
- First, get your banana ready. If using a fresh banana, simply peel it. If you're going for ultimate creaminess, grab your pre-sliced frozen banana.
- Next, bring a small pot of water to a rolling boil. Prepare an ice bath by filling a bowl with ice water.
- Quickly dip your 2 cups of fresh baby spinach into the boiling water for just 30 seconds. Immediately transfer the spinach to the ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve its vibrant color.
- Once cooled, thoroughly squeeze out all excess water from the spinach. This step is crucial for both texture and taste.
Step 2: Load Your Blender
- For maximum smoothness and efficient blending, the order of ingredients matters. Always start by adding your liquid (milk or dairy substitute) to the blender first.
- Then, add the blanched, squeezed spinach, followed by the banana, and finally, any ice cubes if you're using them. This layering ensures the blades can easily catch and break down all the ingredients.
Step 3: Blend to Perfection
- Secure the lid on your blender. Begin blending on a low speed to start breaking down the ingredients, then gradually increase to high speed.
- Blend until the mixture is completely uniform, smooth, creamy, and frosty with no visible spinach flecks. If needed, stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure everything gets incorporated.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
- Pour your freshly blended Spinach Banana Smoothie into a glass and enjoy! It's truly best savored right after blending for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
For the best results, always blanch fresh baby spinach to achieve that perfect, vibrant, no-grassy-taste green smoothie. Using a frozen ripe banana creates a naturally creamy, frosty texture, often eliminating the need for ice cubes. For efficient blending, always add liquids first, then greens and soft fruits, followed by frozen ingredients. Smoothies are best enjoyed immediately after blending. If absolutely necessary, store in an airtight container for up to 1-2 hours in the refrigerator. For meal prep, blanch and freeze spinach, and slice and freeze ripe bananas in advance.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.
