Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this smoothie because it’s quick, delicious, and healthful. The pineapple adds natural sweetness and vitamin C, while the spinach contributes fiber, iron, and extra greens without overwhelming flavor. It’s a great way to start your day or recharge with a light, energizing snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pineapple (fresh or frozen, cut into chunks)
- Fresh spinach leaves (washed and stems removed)
- Milk or plant-based milk (almond, coconut, oat, etc.)
- Yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- Banana (optional, for extra sweetness and smooth texture)
- Honey, maple syrup, or other sweetener (optional)
- Ice cubes (optional, especially if using fresh pineapple)
- Fresh lemon or lime juice (optional, for brightness)
Directions
- Prepare the ingredients
If using fresh pineapple, cut it into chunks and remove the core. Wash and dry the spinach. If you include banana, peel and slice it. - Layer into blender
Add the liquid (milk or plant-based milk) first to the blender. Then add the pineapple chunks, spinach, and banana (if using). Add sweetener, a splash of lemon or lime juice, and ice cubes if desired. - Blend
Start at a low speed and gradually increase to high. Blend until smooth and creamy, with no visible spinach bits. - Adjust consistency & flavor
Check the texture. If it’s too thick, add more milk; if it’s too thin, add more pineapple or banana or a few ice cubes. Taste, and adjust sweetness or acidity (a little extra lemon/lime) if needed. Blend again briefly. - Serve
Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Servings and timing
Servings: 1 to 2 glasses (depending on blender size)
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Total time: ~5 minutes
Variations
- Green boost: Add a handful of kale or Swiss chard along with or instead of spinach.
- Tropical twist: Include mango, pineapple juice, or coconut water.
- Protein addition: Stir in a scoop of protein powder or a spoonful of nut butter.
- Citrus zing: Add extra lime or orange juice to brighten flavors.
- Seed boost: Add chia seeds, flaxseed, or hemp seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
- Ginger or mint: Add a small piece of fresh ginger or a few mint leaves for freshness and spice.
- Frozen version: Use frozen pineapple (and banana) to skip ice and make a thicker, colder smoothie.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Smoothies are best consumed right away. If needed, store in a sealed container in the fridge and drink within 24 hours. The color may darken slightly.
- Re-blend before serving: If separation occurs, just give it a quick stir or shake, and re-blend briefly.
- Note: This is a cold drink—do not reheat, or the fresh, fruity flavor will be lost.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Frozen spinach works—but make sure it’s thawed or broken up so the smoothie blends smoothly without large frozen chunks.
Do I need to add banana?
No. Banana adds creaminess and natural sweetness, but the smoothie is fine without it—just adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Can I use pineapple juice instead of chunks?
You can use part pineapple juice, but keep some solid fruit to maintain thickness and fiber.
Can I use other greens instead of spinach?
Yes—kale, Swiss chard, or baby greens are all good alternatives. Just adjust flavor if the greens are more robust.
Is this smoothie filling?
It can be, especially if you include banana, yogurt, or protein powder. Without added ingredients, it’s a light, refreshing drink.
Can I make this ahead?
You can prepare it and refrigerate, but it’s best fresh. If storing, consume within 24 hours and stir or re-blend before drinking.
How do I prevent a bitter green flavor?
Use a mild-tasting green like spinach, ensure the pineapple is sweet, and balance with citrus or a bit of sweetener.
Can I drink this if I’m watching sugar?
Yes—control the sweetness by adjusting or omitting added sweeteners. Use unsweetened milk or yogurt and rely on fruit’s natural sugars.
Can I freeze leftovers?
You can freeze in ice cube trays and later blend into smoothies. Freezing the whole smoothie may alter texture.
What’s a good blender for this?
A blender that can handle ice and frozen fruit (low to high speeds, strong motor) works best for achieving a smooth, creamy texture.
Conclusion
The pineapple and spinach smoothie is a simple, vibrant, and healthful option for breakfast or a snack. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you get a drink that tastes like sunshine and packs in greens without a heavy flavor. Adjust it to your preference—add protein, extra greens, or tropical fruits—and enjoy a refreshing, nourishing boost.
PrintPineapple and Spinach Smoothie
The Pineapple and Spinach Smoothie is a refreshing blend of tropical sweetness and leafy greens. Bright pineapple balances the mild earthiness of spinach for a vibrant, nutrient-packed drink perfect for breakfast or a quick energy boost.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1–2 servings
- Category: Beverage, Smoothie
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, washed
- 1/2 cup milk or plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut)
- 1/4 cup yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/2 banana (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon or lime juice (optional)
- Ice cubes (optional, especially if using fresh pineapple)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: cut pineapple, wash spinach, and slice banana if using.
- In a blender, add milk first, then pineapple, spinach, banana, yogurt, and any optional ingredients.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, adding more milk as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust: add honey for sweetness or lemon juice for brightness.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use frozen pineapple for a thicker, frostier smoothie without needing ice.
- Adjust sweetness naturally with ripe banana or skip sweeteners for a lighter option.
- Add chia seeds, flax, or protein powder for a more filling version.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 24 hours; shake or re-blend before serving.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and yogurt alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (about 300 ml)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg