TROPICAL GREEN TEA SMOOTHIE
During summer months, I’m always looking for something cold and satisfying besides ice cream. This recipe pairs the idea of refreshing iced tea with a healthy green smoothie. With the addition of pineapple, banana and coconut, this drink is my new favourite summer refresher.
Fresh ingredients yield the best results. In summer months, I load up on fresh fruit and freeze at peak ripeness. You can also purchase frozen fruit for this recipe to save time.
A smoothie can do more than just offer a treat. With a variety of ingredients, it can be a healthy snack or sometimes a meal replacement. Making a smoothie that is delicious and healthy can be challenging. Variety of ingredients is the key. Experiment with different ingredients. Use nuts, vegetables, fruit, coconuts, dried fruit and teas to create a well-balanced smoothie.
Some tips for a great tropical smoothie:
The sweetness of the smoothie will depend on the ripeness of the pineapple.
The quality of the coconut is important.
Don’t leave out the citrus but add a little at a time.
Always start with a little liquid at the bottom of the KitchenAid® Diamond Blender.
Add ice last, if not using frozen ingredients.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with ingredients. Smoothies should be made to taste.
TROPICAL GREEN TEA SMOOTHIE
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cups prepared iced tea (mint, black or green)
2 cups kale
1 cup organic baby spinach
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 6-inch cucumber (cut into 4 pieces)
1 green apple (cored, and cut into quarters)
1 frozen banana
2 cups frozen pineapple chunks (for Vitamin C)
12 medium basil leaves (for kidney health)
1 lime, juiced
1 cup ice (about 4-6 cubes as needed for desired thickness)
DIRECTIONS
Start by pouring the cold tea into the KitchenAid® Diamond Blender.
Add in kale, spinach and coconut (if using).
Cover KitchenAid® Diamond Blender and press power button once (the power indicator will illuminate). Puree for 10 seconds.
Next place cucumber, apple, frozen banana and frozen pineapple into the KitchenAid® Diamond Blender. Pour in lime juice then top with ice.
Cover and blend on liquefy setting for 45 seconds – one minute.
