Spirulina Smoothie Recipe
This nourishing spirulina smoothie recipe was developed exclusively for Nuts.com and our customers by Miryam Quinn Doblas, Registered Dietitian (RD). Miryam inspires others with her passion for creating healthy and delicious recipes on her website, Eat Good 4 Life.
Have you ever tried spirulina? This blue-green microalgae powder is recognized as a superfood, thanks to its rich nutritional treasures. My detoxifying spirulina smoothie is the perfect way to introduce this superfood ingredient into your diet. As the weather warms up, refreshing smoothies are a fantastic option for energizing your mornings. This spirulina smoothie also makes a great post-workout beverage or afternoon pick-me-up.
Spirulina provides a wide range of health benefits and is highly digestible. This blue-green microalgae powder is a protein powerhouse. By weight, it contains between 55 and 70% protein (more than beef, chicken, and soybeans). Considered a complete protein because it provides all nine essential amino acids, spirulina is an excellent protein source for vegans and vegetarians. Per ounce, spirulina packs a whopping 16 grams of protein, so just adding a couple teaspoons to a smoothie can give you a major protein boost.
Aside from being a remarkable protein source, spirulina is one of the best food sources of vitamin B12, which supports the brain and nervous system. This emerald green superfood provides even more all-around nutrition in the form of 18 amino acids, other B-complex vitamins, and high levels of beta-carotene, iron, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants. Spirulina provides a nearly instantaneous boost to energy levels, while helping to improve endurance and reduce fatigue. It also supports the immune system and acts as a natural detoxifier to cleanse the body of toxins and heavy metals.
Smoothies are one of my favorite ways to enjoy spirulina because you can add your favorite fruits and vegetables. The smoky seaweed-like flavor of spirulina is indistinguishable among the other flavors in this delicious smoothie. The apple juice and banana lend the beverage a naturally sweet flavor, with a hint of citrus from freshly squeezed lemons. I added fresh spinach this time, but it’s always good to change things up by alternating different leafy greens like kale, arugula, or collard greens.
The versatility of spirulina extends far beyond smoothies and drinks. You can also shake it up with your favorite salad dressing or mix it right into soups and sauces. Adding a bit of spirulina to guacamole will give your chip dip a super healthy makeover. Toss it in homemade energy bites and bars, or even pancake and waffle batter. The possibilities for spirulina in your diet are endless when you think outside the box.
My whole family loved this spirulina smoothie recipe, and I’m sure you will, too! It only takes a few minutes to prepare this yummy, nutrient-packed smoothie. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp spirulina
- 1 banana
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 13 oz apple juice
- 2-3 cups crushed iced
- Juice of 2 lemons
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients in your blender and blend until smooth. Depending on the blender, this may take 10-30 seconds. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This recipe was developed and photographed exclusively for Nuts.com by Miryam Quinn Doblas, RD, of Eat Good 4 Life.
3 Responses to “Spirulina Smoothie Recipe”
I’m gonna make some of this for my family. Hope they love it too. Thanks for this healthy recipe. And also for that nutrition facts too.
HOW many servings does the recipe above make? IT does not say.
It leads to believe it is only ONE serving / But then when you look at the nutritional facts, it says there is only 97 calories in one serving (assumed to be the entire recipe) That, however, can not be possible. The banana alone is more than 97 calories. Plus the 13 oz of Apple juice (assumed to be regular and sugar free)….. Is it just me or am I not seeing something?
Hi Jenny, thanks for your question! Our Spirulina Smoothie recipe makes two servings. Sorry for the confusion!