This easy Green Smoothie recipe is high in protein, but uses no protein powder! It is a healthy drink packed with fruits and veggies, perfect for breakfast or a quick snack. Ready in just 10 minutes using a blender, it's simple to customize with your favorite ideas for add-ins.
Start your day with more healthy recipes like my Homemade Protein Balls and Citrus Ginger Immunity Shots.
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Simple Green Smoothie Recipe
I've been making green smoothie recipes almost daily and this one is by far the best! This drink is packed with everything I need to start the day strong. It’s naturally sweetened with fruit and loaded with healthy omega-3s from flaxseeds and walnuts.
The texture is super creamy, and it’s easy to toss in some protein if I want to make it more filling. With just a handful of simple ingredients, it comes together fast and always tastes so refreshing. If you’ve been wanting an easy way to get more greens in, this is a must-try!
Are green smoothies good for you?
Yes, green smoothies like this high-protein detox version can be a great addition to your routine. It’s packed with fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein from spinach, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Naturally sweetened with fruit and made with simple, nourishing ingredients, it’s a wholesome way to fuel your day.
Ingredients
- Kale: I remove the stems and toss in the leaves for extra fiber and nutrients like vitamin K and antioxidants.
- Spinach: It blends easily and adds even more greens without making the smoothie taste bitter.
- Pineapple: This is where the natural sweetness and tropical flavor come in—fresh or frozen, both work great.
- Pear: Adds subtle sweetness and helps with that smooth, creamy texture.
- Green apple: I love the tartness it brings to balance out the sweeter fruits.
- Celery: Gives the smoothie a light, refreshing flavor and adds even more fiber.
- Cucumber: Super hydrating and mild in flavor, it helps keep the smoothie light and refreshing.
- Ground flaxseed: A great source of healthy omega-3s and fiber—it also helps thicken the smoothie.
- Walnuts: They give a boost of healthy fats and protein, and blend up creamy when paired with the oat milk.
- Oat milk: I use unsweetened oat milk to keep it dairy-free and give the smoothie a creamy, smooth finish.
- Ice (optional): I like to throw in some ice when I want it extra cold and refreshing.
How to Make a no protein powder Green Smoothie
See recipe card for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
You should always start by rinsing the kale, spinach, and celery under cold water to get rid of any dirt. Then I set them aside to drain while I prep the rest of the ingredients.
Next, you need to peel and chop the cucumber. You can peel the apple and pear too, but I usually leave the skin on for extra fiber. If I’m using fresh pineapple, I cut it into chunks.
Once everything’s prepped, I add it all to the blender—kale, spinach, pineapple, pear, apple, celery, cucumber, ground flaxseed, walnuts, oat milk, and some ice if I want it cold.
Blend it on high until it’s smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, I’ll add a little more oat milk, one tablespoon at a time. Sometimes I taste it and add a splash of lemon juice or a little honey to balance the flavors.
If I want it thicker, I toss in more frozen pineapple or another spoonful of flaxseed. Once it’s just right, I pour it into a glass and enjoy it fresh!
Pro Tips
- Use frozen fruit for a thicker smoothie: Frozen pineapple or banana can help give the smoothie a creamy, frosty texture without needing as much ice.
- Don’t skip the flaxseed and walnuts: They add healthy omega-3s, fiber, and protein, and help make the smoothie more satisfying.
- Adjust the consistency with oat milk: If the smoothie is too thick, add more oat milk one tablespoon at a time until it blends smoothly.
- Taste and tweak before serving: Sometimes I add a splash of lemon juice to brighten it up or a drizzle of honey if I want it a little sweeter.
- Blend in stages if needed: If your blender isn’t super powerful, try blending the greens and liquids first before adding the other ingredients.
Storage
If you have leftover smoothie, pour it into an airtight container or jar and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or stir before drinking, since it may separate a little as it sits.
To make it ahead, blend everything and store it in individual jars or reusable bottles for a quick grab-and-go option. You can also freeze the smoothie in silicone molds or ice cube trays and re-blend with a splash of oat milk when ready to drink.
Green Smoothie Recipe Variations
- Mango: Swap the pineapple for mango if you want a sweeter, tropical flavor.
- Yogurt: Add a scoop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and a boost of protein.
- Chia seeds: These tiny seeds add fiber and help thicken the smoothie if you let it sit a few minutes.
- Collagen: Stir in a scoop of collagen powder for skin, hair, and joint support without changing the taste.
- Avocado: A little avocado makes the smoothie extra creamy and adds healthy fats.
- Banana: For a naturally sweeter smoothie, toss in half a banana—it also helps make it smooth and filling.
FAQ
Is it OK to drink a green smoothie every day?
Yes, drinking a green smoothie daily can be a great way to get more fruits, veggies, and nutrients into your routine. Just make sure you're using a variety of ingredients over time to keep things balanced and avoid overloading on natural sugars.
What liquid is good for green smoothies?
Oat milk works great in this recipe because it adds creaminess without dairy, but you can also use almond milk, coconut water, or regular water. Just choose an unsweetened option to keep the smoothie healthy and naturally sweetened.
Can I skip the celery or cucumber?
Yes, you can leave out either one if you’re not a fan. Just replace it with a little extra spinach, kale, or another fruit or veggie you like.
Will I taste the kale?
Not really. The pineapple, pear, and green apple help mask the strong taste, especially if everything is blended well.
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📖 Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup Kale stems removed
- 1 cup Spinach
- ½ cup Pineapple fresh or frozen
- 1 Pear cored and chopped
- ½ Green apple cored and chopped
- 1 stalk Celery chopped
- ½ Cucumber peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon Ground flaxseed
- ¼ cup Walnuts or 1 oz
- 1 cup Oat milk unsweetened
- ½ cup Ice optional, if you want it colder
Instructions
- Start by washing the kale, spinach, and celery thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Set it aside to drain any excess water.
- Now peel and chop the cucumber into bite size pieces. You can peel and chop the apple, and pear if you desire, but the skin does have a lot of health benefits.
- Depending on the power of your blender- the smoothie may not be as creamy if you leave the skin on. If you're using fresh pineapple, cut it into chunks as well.
- Add all the ingredients: kale, spinach, pineapple, pear, green apple, celery, cucumber, ground flaxseed, walnuts, oat milk, and optional ice to a blender.
- Blend everything up on high speed until it is smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, you can add a little more oat milk (one tablespoon at a time) until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste your smoothie, and if you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add a little honey or a splash of lemon juice to balance the flavors.
- If you’d like a thicker smoothie, you can add a bit more frozen pineapple or another tablespoon of flaxseed.
- Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy!
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