I’ve always wanted to incorporate green juices and smoothies into my diet, but have struggled to find a good one. They’re either too bitter and tough on your stomach, or overly sweet and full of way too much sugar to still be considered good for you. I finally came up with a good recipe by tweaking a few different ones others have shared and putting them together like a patchwork quilt. This one is very light and mild - not too vegetable-tasting, but also won’t spike your blood sugar. It has a full serving or two of vegetables, yet is easy to digest. I’ve made this for a few of my friends’ kids, and they love it, too (although you might want to cut this recipe in half or share with them).

One note on the spinach in this recipe: I personally freeze my spinach, and recommend that for smoothies or juices. Not only does it help it last longer, but freezing it makes the flavor basically nonexistent, so if you’re wary of including spinach in your smoothie, I highly recommend freezing it first, although it’s not necessary. The smoothie tastes great either way.

PS: if you don’t like a semi-chunky texture, I recommend using a food processor for the cucumber, spinach, and apple so everything is finely blended. On the other hand, you could also add in a scoop of protein powder to make the smoothie a little more creamy.

low-sugar sweet green smoothie

ingredients

Makes one smoothie

1/4 cup coconut water
1/2 medium English cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
1/2 cup spinach
1/2 frozen avocado (frozen banana slices also work)
1 small green apple, cored and finely choppped
Juice of 1 lime
1/2 cup almond milk (I like Malk or Califa)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
Optional - a few ice cubes if you like an extra-cold (or thicker) smoothie, especially if you’re using fresh (not frozen) avocado

to prepare:

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor, and blend until smooth.
Serve immediately; the smoothie will lose its texture if you leave it in the fridge for too long.