green smoothies

On the heels of my super "clean eating" week, we've been on a green smoothie kick around here. Long after the five or so post-baby pounds came off my backside, the healthy habits have stuck. This smoothie makes a quick and easy breakfast or a healthy after school snack. Green smoothies were one of my children's favorite recipes from that week...after I got them to try them. The color is *bright*, so I tempted them by having a smoothie naming contest. I will spare you the names they came up with...

Go-To Green Smoothie

(makes 1 quart)

1-2 banana(s)
1 green apple, cored
1 orange, peeled
zest and juice of 1 lemon
6 oz spinach or kale (or a couple hearty handfuls)
2 Tablespoons ground flaxseed
1 scoop Vega One protein powder (optional)*
2 cups water or coconut water

Blend in a blender until everything is very smooth.

*If the smoothie was being enjoyed in lieu of our traditional make-ahead frittata, protein pancake, oatmeal breakfasts then I added protein powder to make sure we all had the good energy for school and play. I found this brand of protein powder at Whole Foods. It came in a bunch of flavors, but I just went with plain and let the fruits drive the flavor.