Green apple kale smoothie

There's something so refreshing about starting the day with a burst of green goodness, and this green apple kale smoothie delivers just that. This vibrant smoothie tastes like a refreshing, tart sour apple. It combines the crispness of green apple with the earthy kale, creating a blend that is both energizing and nourishing. This smoothie is incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time.

Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or a post-workout snack, this smoothie has got you covered. Plus, it's packed with essential nutrients, making it a powerhouse drink that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

This smoothie recipe with apples is particularly popular in the spring and summer months when people crave lighter, more refreshing meals. However, its nutrient density makes it a perfect choice year-round, especially for those looking to boost their immune system during the colder months. This smoothie was inspired by my love for fresh, simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor and nutrition.

Kale apple smoothie ingredient notes

Each ingredient plays a role in creating a smoothie that is both delicious and nutritious. Let’s dive into what makes each ingredient special.

Kale 

Kale is at the heart of this smoothie. Known for its robust flavor and dense nutrient profile, kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber. Its slightly bitter taste is not noticeable when blended with sweet and tart fruits, making it a perfect base for green smoothies. I love using kale because it provides a deep green color and a substantial texture, which makes the smoothie feel more filling and satisfying.

Green apple

The green apple is the star fruit of this smoothie, offering a crisp and refreshing taste. Green apples are lower in sugar compared to other apple varieties. They are also high in fiber and vitamin C, which contribute to a healthy digestive system and a strong immune response.

Frozen mango

Adding frozen mango to this smoothie not only contributes to its creamy texture but also brings a natural sweetness that balances the flavors. Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as folate, which supports healthy skin and immune function. Using frozen fruit eliminates the need for ice, which can water down the smoothie, ensuring a thick and velvety consistency.

Almond milk

Almond milk serves as the liquid base for this smoothie, providing a subtle nutty flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s a great dairy-free alternative that’s low in calories and rich in vitamin E, which is essential for skin health. I prefer using unsweetened almond milk to keep the smoothie light and to allow the natural flavors of the fruits and kale to shine through.

Medjool dates

Medjool dates are nature’s candy, bringing a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the smoothie without the need for refined sugars. These dates are packed with fiber, potassium, and magnesium, making them a nutrient-dense addition to this recipe. They also help to balance the tartness of the green apple, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both satisfying and energizing.

Lemon juice and zest

The juice of half a lemon and a bit of lemon zest (if you like) add a bright, citrusy note that lifts the entire smoothie. Lemon juice is not only a great source of vitamin C, but it also enhances the absorption of iron from the kale. The zest adds an extra layer of citrus flavor, making the smoothie even more refreshing. I find that a touch of lemon helps to round out the flavors, creating a perfectly balanced drink.

For the exact quantities of these ingredients, be sure to check out the recipe card at the end of this post.

How to make this green apple smoothie

Creating this green apple kale smoothie is super simple. With a high speed blender and a few minutes, you'll have a delicious and nutritious drink ready to go.

Prepare the ingredients

Start by washing the kale thoroughly. Peel and core the green apple, then chop it into chunks. If you're using fresh mango, cut it into pieces and freeze them ahead of time. Pit the Medjool dates and juice the lemon. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready will make the blending process smooth and efficient.

Blend the greens

Begin by adding the kale and almond milk to the blender. It's important to blend the greens first to ensure they are broken down completely before adding the other ingredients. Blend on high until the kale is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and green.

Add the fruits and blend

Next, add the green apple, frozen mango, Medjool dates, and lemon juice to the blender. Blend on high until all the ingredients are fully combined and the smoothie is creamy and smooth. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add a few ice cubes or more frozen fruit. If the smoothie is too thick, simply add a splash more almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.

I recommend a high-speed blender for the smoothest results - I use this Ninja blender.

Substitutions & variations

• Mango alternatives: If you prefer a smoothie without mango, you can substitute with frozen peaches. This is a great smoothie without banana, but if you want to add banana for extra sweetness and thickness, you can substitute half of the frozen fruit with a ripe banana.
• Almond milk alternatives: You can replace almond milk with oat milk, soy milk, or coconut water. These options will provide a slightly different flavor profile but will keep the smoothie dairy-free and refreshing.

• Ginger: Add a small piece of ginger to the blender for a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the green apple and the earthiness of the kale. Ginger also has great digestive and immunity boosting benefits.
• Protein: To make this smoothie even more filling, consider adding a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder or a couple tablespoons of chia seeds or hemp seeds. These additions will not only enhance the nutritional value but also keep you satiated for longer.

Top tips for making this recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure you get the best results every time:

• Don’t overblend: While it’s important to blend the kale thoroughly, over blending can cause the smoothie to become too frothy. Blend just until smooth, and stop as soon as you reach the desired consistency.
• Use ripe fruits: Ripe fruits will add more sweetness and depth of flavor to the smoothie. If your green apple is too tart, you can balance it out with an extra date or a bit more frozen mango.
• Adjust to taste: Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your palate. If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, add more dates or a splash of maple syrup. For a tarter drink, add more lemon juice.

FAQs

Is it ok to put raw kale in a smoothie?

Absolutely - raw kale is a fantastic addition to smoothies as it retains all its nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K. Blending kale with fruits helps to break down its tough fibers, making it easier to digest and allowing your body to absorb all the goodness it has to offer.

What are the benefits of kale apple smoothie?

This kale apple smoothie is a nutritional powerhouse. Kale is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins, while green apples provide a good dose of vitamin C and fiber. Together, they support digestive health, boost immunity, and promote healthy skin.

What to serve with this kale apple smoothie

These are some of my favorite dishes to serve with this green apple smoothie recipe:

• If you're looking for a protein-packed breakfast to go alongside your smoothie, my Super Flavorful Tofu Scramble is the perfect match. This balanced meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.
• There’s nothing like a smoothie with avocado toast - try pairing your smoothie with my Zaatar Avocado Toast.
• For a more substantial meal, try serving this smoothie with my Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Sandwich or Hearty Kale Salad with Chickpeas! These combinations are light yet satisfying, ideal for a midday meal that won’t weigh you down.

Recipe

Related

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

• Iced Orange Blossom Latte
• The Ultimate Savory Kale Salad
• Tempeh Kale Taco Salad