Everyday Green Smoothie

On most days, breakfast in our house means either this Green Smoothie or a Loaded Oatmeal. Why? Because these recipes are hard to beat in terms of fiber, protein, vitamins, and other micronutrients AND they're filling and delicious!

You can use any fruit you like. We like bananas because they add sweetness and creaminess, plus one other frozen fruit (usually berries for us because they're so jam-packed with antioxidants). Choose any plant-based protein powder you like. Our favorites are Garden of Life Organic Vanilla Protein Shake which one can usually find at Target for $20 (for 18 servings) or Vega Protein and Greens Berry Flavor (also often on sale at Target for $20 for 20 servings.) We like these two brands because we're personally trying to maximize protein and nutrients for as few calories as possible. This whole smoothie is generally around 400-450 calories (which is a healthy-sized breakfast for most people) with 32 grams of protein, 16 grams of fiber, along with a ton of other nutrients. Not a bad way to start your day! Worried you won't feel full after "just a smoothie" for breakfast? Try this recipe and see how you feel after 16 grams of fiber and 32 grams of protein! (We promise. You will NOT feel hungry!)

Tip: Buy an extra bunch of bananas next time you're at the grocery store. When you get home, peel each banana and break it into 3 or 4 chunks and place all of the chunks in a freezer bag so you'll always have frozen banana ready when you want to make a smoothie or "nice" cream.

Prep time: 6 minutes

Cook time: none

Serves: 1

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened soy milk

• 1 cup water

• 2 cups fresh kale (about 3-4 large fronds, stems and all)

• 1 small - medium banana, broken into chunks, fully frozen

• 1 cup other frozen fruit (we suggest berries)

• 1 scoop plant-based protein powder

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth. Enjoy!