Green Smoothie
This green smoothie is loaded with health benefits that make it perfect for any time of year, but especially during cold and flu season. It’s loaded with targeted, specific ingredients that help boost your immunity and make you feel great like my Orange Smoothie. And it doesn’t stink! Pears add some sweetness to the smoothie, so it’s worth a try!
Smoothie Ingredients
Orange: We all know that oranges are rich in vitamin C. They are also a good source of fiber and folic acid (help the metabolism).
Broccoli: Broccoli is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is also rich in antioxidants.
Cucumbers: Many classify cucumbers as vegetables, but they are fruits. No matter which label you use, it is packed with nutrients and antioxidants, will help you hydrate, and may even promote weight loss. The peel is left on the cucumber, which adds the most nutrients.
Spinach: Spinach is a superfood! It is rich in nutrients, vitamin C being one of them. Vitamin C is essential to make cold or flu symptoms more bearable or to help fight germs that our bodies come into contact with every day! Check out my list of eleven essential foods to fight the flu for more superfoods to keep you healthy.
Lemon: Like oranges, lemons are a good source of vitamin C, which is great for heart health. They are also useful for lowering cholesterol, preventing kidney stones, and improving digestive health. You can peel the lemon and put it in the blender (if you have enough space). Or, you can simply use the juice of a lemon to add to your smoothies.
Pears: Pears are rich in minerals like copper and potassium. Copper helps with immunity and nerve function; Potassium aids in muscle contractions and heart function. Pears also have anti-inflammatory properties and are good for digestion.
How long does fruit and vegetable juice last?
This juice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the smoothie in a safe container in the freezer. It will keep for about 3 months in the freezer.
Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
Yes indeed! As mentioned above, smoothies can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Store in jars with lids (eg glass jars). When you’re ready to enjoy the juice, let it thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature until it thaws. Shake and enjoy!
Another way to make smoothies ahead of time is to freeze the mixture in an ice cube tray. Fill each cup of ice cream container with an equal amount of smoothie. Then hold it in the freezer for up to a few months.
If you feel like a smoothie, put your smoothie cubes in a jar or glass with a lid. Pop it in the fridge to thaw and shake it up when you’re ready to drink! You can also add frozen cubes to your blender for a quick way to make a smoothie in the morning when you’re in a hurry.
