Classic Green Smoothie

In the past I have tried several green smoothie recipes (most of which were developed in my head) and none of them really blew me away.  I was always trying to just add greens into a smoothie I already knew I'd enjoy, and something about that just wasn't right.

Last night I YouTubed "Best Green Smoothie" and learned quite a bit.  Of course there are greens, but the fruit you choose is quite important.  A very ripe banana or pineapple will add enough sweetness to counteract the bitterness of the greens -  making it more palatable! 

I decided it was time to finally master a green smoothie. 

And it turned out GREAT! Way better than I had expected.  It tastes sweet, with a hint of greens, and the aftertaste is not bitter because of the banana.  I have a feeling this has changed the way I will think about smoothies.  YUM.

Classic Green Smoothie (serves ~ 1-2)

1 cup spinach

1 cup kale

1 ripe banana

1.5 cups chopped pineapple

2 tbsp. unsweetened coconut

2 cups water (feel free to use coconut water instead)

1/2 - 1 cup of ice

Blend away until completely smooth and serve in a mason jar :)  Enjoy!



Green Patties for St. Patrick's Day

I've never really celebrated St. Patrick's Day, but this year I decided it was definitely the perfect excuse to concoct some green things in the kitchen!  If you don't know what a protein pancake is, then I highly suggest trying them for yourselves!  They are low on carbs, higher in protein and so incredibly tasty.  This St. Patrick's Day inspired recipe is a variation of that, except with a green twist!

Who doesn't love incorporating MORE greens into your diet without even tasting them?! These protein paddy cakes are DELICIOUS (you can't taste the greens) and a great way to up your dose of nutrient packed veggies :)


Protein Paddy Cakes

1 scoop of brown rice protein powder (I used Perfect Fit)
2-3 egg whites
1/2 banana
1/2 cup of spinach
1 tbsp ground flaxseed
Dash of cinnamon (or several if you're like me :)

Combine all ingredients in a blender (Magic Bullet works great) and blend until smooth.  

Warm a lightly greased pan to medium and cook your pancakes a few minutes each side :)

Voila!

 My toppings were Greek yogurt mixed with raw cocoa, peach slices, walnuts and unsweetened shredded coconut. YUM!!