Quick Green Smoothie Recipe

When a recession hits, one of the first things to go is unnecessary pleasure like smoothies. Let’s face it, smoothies are expensive, especially good ones from places like Juice Joint and Java Green.

In addition to being expensive, smoothies are also really good for you. With crazy illnesses like swine flu flying around, building up your immune system and making sure you’re getting proper nutrition is important.

So how can you have a smoothie without breaking the bank? Make them yourself.

Today, the Huffington Post had a great “green” smoothie recipe to make at home. It is not only delicious, but it will provide you vitamins you might miss out on if you don’t eat a lot of green vegetables.

Basic Green Smoothie

Makes about 1-2 quarts

4-5 peeled medium bananas
1-inch slice of peeled fresh pineapple
1-2 cups seasonal and/or favorite fruit (red berries are great to mask the green color and/or taste
1-2 cups greens (milder greens, such as romaine lettuce or baby spinach often go over better with children)
1-2 cups of liquid (fresh-squeezed juice or coconut water)

Blend fruit and liquid first, then add greens. Puree until smooth and enjoy!

A great use of leftover juice and/or smoothies is to make homemade popsicles.

Experiment with different greens to find a combination that suits you. Mix and match some of the following:

• Baby Spinach
• Romaine lettuce
• Parsley
• Mint
• Kale
• Chard
• Baby greens (spring mix)
• Arugula
• Wheat grass
• Barley grass
• Sprouts
• Celery
• Wild greens (such as dandelion)

Photo Credit: Flickr CC user tiffanywashko