This simple 5 ingredient green smoothie could be "Day 1" of your new healthy lifestyle, as well as your go-to when you want something fast and delicious. This weight-loss green smoothie is both hydrating and energizing. The avocado gives this smoothie a creamy, luxurious texture. Whether you're new to green smoothies or a long-time fan, this quick and simple recipe will become a go-to for your morning routine.
The natural sweetness from the coconut water, apple, and mango offset the bitterness from the kale.
While this makes a great breakfast smoothie, it's never a bad idea to have something energizing, hydrating, nutrient-dense, and tasty, no matter what time of day.
Why You'll Love This Green Smoothie
- Only 5 Ingredients – No complicated add-ins, just simple, fresh ingredients.
- Naturally Sweet – No added sugars; the fruit and coconut water provide the perfect sweetness.
- Nutrient-Dense – Packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Easy to Make – A quick and effortless way to fuel your day.
- Hydrating & Refreshing – Thanks to coconut water, this smoothie is a great way to stay hydrated.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Coconut Water – A natural electrolyte-rich liquid that hydrates and adds a subtle sweetness. Coconut water is a great source of potassium.
- Kale – A powerhouse leafy green loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants.
- Apple (or Banana) – Adds natural sweetness and fiber for a satisfying texture.
- Mango (or Pineapple) – Provides a tropical twist with vitamin C and digestive enzymes.
- Avocado – The secret to an ultra-creamy texture, plus healthy fats to keep you full.
Feel free to make substitutions with this green smoothie. For example, use spinach instead of kale, pineapple instead of mango, or banana instead of apple. You can't go wrong with adding more whole plant foods to your routine.
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Pro Tips for the Best Green Smoothie
- Use Frozen Fruit – For a thicker, creamier smoothie, use frozen mango or pineapple.
- Blend Greens First – If you don't have a high-powered blender, and if you want an extra-smooth texture, blend the kale with coconut water first before adding the other ingredients.
- Customize It – Add a scoop of chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds for an extra boost.
- Adjust Sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter and creamier smoothie, go with a ripe banana instead of an apple.
How to Prepare
Prep Your Ingredients
If using an apple, core and chop it into chunks. If using a banana, peel it.
Peel and cube the mango or pineapple if not using frozen fruit.
Cut and scoop out half an avocado.
Rinse the kale and give it a rough chop.
Blend Everything Together
Add the kale, apple (or banana), mango (or pineapple), and avocado.
If using, add about a cup of ice.
Pour in the coconut water.
Blend on high for 30 to 45 seconds until completely smooth.
Enjoy!
Pour your smoothie into a glass and enjoy it immediately. You can also store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Health Benefits of This Green Smoothie
- Dark leafy green vegetables like kale increase nitric oxide production, which improves heart and brain health. Learn more about the benefits of kale.
- Vitamin C-rich foods like mango, pineapple, and citrus fruits work synergistically with dark leafy greens to boost nitric oxide levels.
- Healthy plant fats like avocado aid the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin K in dark leafy greens.
- Coconut water is a rich source of potassium, which can help to lower high blood pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but that shouldn't be the only thing you eat (or drink). A green smoothie can be a healthy part of an overall whole food plant-based diet with various other foods like beans, lentils, whole grains, seeds, and nuts. It's also good practice to eat a rainbow of different vegetables and fruits. The bottom line is that variety is key!
Not all green smoothies are created equal. You'll want to make sure it does not have any added sugar or preservatives. This green smoothie recipe uses whole plant foods that are high in antioxidants and beneficial compounds like polyphenols, which are shown to lower inflammation and promote health.
Any dark leafy cruciferous greens are good, and it's good practice to mix things up. In addition to kale, Swiss chard, baby bok choy, spinach, arugula, and salad greens are excellent options. They'll change the taste of the smoothie, especially arugula. However, that keeps things interesting.
This green smoothie is best when you drink it right away. If you're not going to consume it immediately, be sure to refrigerate it in an airtight container, such as a mason jar, and finish it within 24 hours.
Related Smoothies Great for Weight Loss
For more smoothie inspiration, check out our top weight-loss smoothies.
We hope you love this simple 5-ingredient green weight loss smoothie, and that it becomes a favorite for you too. Please rate and leave a comment below. Be sure to share a picture on Instagram and tag us @danielsplaterecipes so we can see your creation!
Simple 5 Ingredient Green Smoothie Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped kale
- 1 apple cored (or banana)
- 1 cup frozen or fresh mango cubed (or pineapple)
- ½ avocado pitted
- 17 oz. plain unsweetened coconut water (see Notes about Coconut Water)
- Ice optional, but recommended for a cold smoothie
Instructions
Prep Your Ingredients
- If using an apple, core and chop it into chunks. If using a banana, peel it.
- Peel and cube the mango or pineapple if not using frozen fruit.
- Cut and scoop out half an avocado.
- Rinse the kale and give it a rough chop.
Blend Everything Together
- Add the kale, apple (or banana), mango (or pineapple), and avocado.
- If using, add about a cup of ice.
- Pour in the coconut water.
- Blend on high for 30 to 45 seconds until completely smooth.
Enjoy!
- Pour your smoothie into a glass and enjoy it immediately.
Notes
- Coconut Water: Most brands of plain, unsweetened coconut water have a container size that's around 17 fluid ounces. Just use one of those. Or, if you have a larger container that's around 34 fluid ounces, measure about 17 ounces for this recipe.
- Equipment: Blender
- Leftovers: You can also store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Onica says
Thanks this helps
Gigi & Sersie says
you are so welcome! we hope you enjoy it.
Shamaine Dorsett says
This smoothie is so delicious. 😋All the ingredients compliment each other resulting into a smooth, sweet and refreshing drink. 5 ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Gigi & Sersie says
Thank you for the feedback, Shamaine! So glad you enjoyed the smoothie. 🙂
Karlene says
I love this fresh smoothie! Not only is it yumm, but also filling. This kept me full for the whole morning. I will be incorperating this smoothie into me regular morning routine.
Thanks for sharing!
Gigi & Sersie says
Karlene, thank you for sharing your feedback. We're so glad it's a part of your go-to breakfast options or morning snacks.
Sophia says
Thank you Sersie and Gigi!
This smoothie was so very delicious, and easy to prep. We used frozen mangoes, and added a little extra because the girls love this fruit. With two small children, this is the perfect on-the-go breakfast. Thank you and looking forward to the fast!
Gigi & Sersie says
Thank you, Sophia. We're so glad you enjoyed it and you found it to be a time saver. It's always good to add more mangos. A favorite of ours too. 🙂
Blue says
This smoothie is simple, tasty and do refreshing and an energy booster.
Zsa Zsa says
Sersie gave me a few ideas for smoothies and this one is tasty.
Gigi & Sersie says
Thank you, Zsa Zsa. We're so glad you enjoyed it.
Pauline Hudson says
Refreshing and filling smoothie. Richness enhanced with avocado.
Mona Brown says
I must say it really was refreshing. I hate kale it wasn't too over powering. It didn't take too long to make as well. Will make it again.
Gigi & Sersie says
Thank you, Mona. We're so glad you enjoyed it and will make it again.