Mixed Berry Green Machine

Mixed Berry Green Machine (ID: 19)

Description
A nutritional powerhouse that cleverly combines a vibrant trio of berries with nutrient-dense spinach and creamy avocado, creating a delicious smoothie where the sweet berry flavors completely mask the healthy green additions.

Yield
16 oz (473 ml) - One serving

Preparation Time
5 minutes

Ingredients
- 2/3 cup strawberries, fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
- 1/4 medium ripe avocado
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- 4-5 ice cubes (omit if using frozen fruit)

Equipment
- High-powered blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Glass for serving

Instructions
1. Thoroughly wash spinach if using fresh. Remove any stems from berries if needed.
2. Add almond milk to the blender first.
3. Add spinach and pulse a few times to break down the greens.
4. Add all berries, avocado chunks, flaxseed, honey, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Add ice cubes if using fresh fruit.
6. Blend on medium speed for 30 seconds to break down the greens and berries.
7. Increase to high speed and blend for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth with no visible green flecks.
8. Pause and scrape down the sides with a spatula if needed.
9. Blend for another 15 seconds to ensure complete smoothness.

Nutritional Information (approximate)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 14g
- Fat: 12g
- Vitamin A: 6000 IU
- Vitamin C: 95mg
- Vitamin K: 360μg
- Iron: 4mg

Benefits
- Provides a full serving of vegetables while tasting like a fruit smoothie
- Rich in vitamin K and folate from spinach for blood and cellular health
- Contains healthy monounsaturated fats from avocado for nutrient absorption
- Delivers diverse antioxidants from multiple berry types for comprehensive protection
- Offers substantial fiber for digestive health and satiety
- Supports skin health through vitamins A, C, E and healthy fats

Variations
- For extra protein: Add 1 scoop vanilla protein powder or 2 tablespoons hemp seeds
- For omega-3 boost: Add 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- For even more greens: Add 1/2 cup fresh kale (the berry flavor will still mask it)
- For digestive support: Add 1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger

Serving Suggestion
Serve in a reusable to-go cup with a reusable straw for a convenient nutrient-dense breakfast on busy mornings. The deep purple color masks the green ingredients completely, making this an excellent choice for picky eaters or those new to green smoothies. For maximum nutritional benefit, consume within 15 minutes of preparation. This smoothie can replace a meal when paired with a small handful of nuts or a hard-boiled egg for extra protein.

Berry-Based Smoothies