A vibrant Fruity Green Smoothie! Say what? A vibrant green smoothie that has just the right amount of fruit.
Let me tell you more. Life is full of surprises and, thankfully, most of them are good ones. I’ve mentioned before that for years my food choices were limited. And, I’m not talking about my choices being limited because of being gluten free.
I’m talking about being a picky eater and being “afraid” of foods, usually not even being willing to try anything new. Oh, I’d try all the new processed foods that came out—the ones that were advertised heavily on television and in magazines. But, I turned my nose up and frowned at real food (and recipes made using primarily real food) that was not already in my eating plan.
However, over the last decade or so (boy, that sounds like a very long time), I’ve learned to enjoy, even love, many new foods and dishes. Still, if you’d told me six months ago that I would learn to love green smoothies, I would have laughed, scoffed, rolled my eyes, and told you flat out, “No way!” But, that’s exactly what has happened.
I’ve been making the green smoothie creations of Ali Segersten of Nourishing Meals for the last few months. I just can’t believe how much I love their taste and how much better these smoothies make me feel. They are delicious, satisfying, and energizing.
I was very skeptical the first time I made them. It took a real leap of faith. I mean there are no added sweeteners and there’s a LOT of salad material in these Fruity Green Smoothies. How could they possibly taste good? Not to mention the fact that they come out green, very green.
How green? Kermit the Frog green. Seriously. Such a vibrant green. And, they even taste green. But, in this case, green tastes really, really good! I was pleasantly surprised the first time I made this smoothie and I’ve been newly surprised each time I’ve made one since then.
I usually make a batch in my blender in the morning before work. I drink half that morning (usually en route to work) and half either that evening after I walk through the door or the next morning for breakfast. They taste especially great after they’ve been chilled in the refrigerator.
I’ve done some experimenting using different ingredients like adding a little POM Wonderful (adds a nice zippy tartness—thanks to the POM Wonderful crew!) or substituting peaches for the pears (which makes them, well, peachy) and while I haven’t made a variation I dislike, the original recipe shown below is my favorite. If I accidentally omit an ingredient, I can tell right away and I’m back foraging in the refrigerator for the one that’s missing.
In Ali’s book, The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook, this smoothie is called a Fruity Medicine Chest Smoothie. That name may do a disservice to this luscious and vibrant Fruity Green Smoothie, because personally, the medicine chest part makes me think of Vicks VapoRub, Luden’s Throat Drops, and hair tonic. However, it does communicate the healthy punch of these smoothies.
Ali knows her stuff regarding nutrition. She says smoothies provide fiber, multiple vitamins (including C), antioxidants, phytochemicals, anti-inflammatories, and bioflavonoids—all the good stuff we hear so much about!
Plus, if you have a hard time getting in enough servings of fruits and vegetables each day, these smoothies make that task so much easier for you. And, unlike, so many “health” beverages on the market these days, you know exactly what goes into these drinks. Because you made them from the contents of your own refrigerator. In just a few minutes.
On our recent vacation, we ate extremely well, but I didn’t always get in enough fruits and veggies and some afternoons we were pretty hot and tired from the day’s ride—a few of these green smoothies would have nicely solved both problems. You can also see photos and Ali’s post on a variation, the Spring Green Smoothie (love that name because spring green is indeed such a vivid green!).
UPDATE: The giveaway mentioned below is now closed.
Here’s the really great news. Ali has graciously offered a copy of her book, The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook, as gfe’s first giveaway. Trust me—this is one you’ll want to have. She kindly provided a complimentary copy for my own use a few months back and I am still in awe of the amount of information and the terrific recipes presented.
It’s far more than a cookbook. It’s also a resource book that offers guidance on: stocking your whole foods pantry with detailed nutritional and storage data, adding more vegetables to your diet, selecting and storing fresh produce, choosing the right cooking equipment, and applying different cooking techniques. The pages of my copy are already dog-eared, underlined, and flagged. I’ve learned so much from this book and I’m looking forward to making all the recipes.
Thus far, in addition to the smoothie recipe, I’ve also made a version of the Home Style Chicken and Vegetable Stew—great comfort food and easy to make!
With Ali’s permission, here’s the recipe.
Fruity Green Smoothie Recipe
A vibrant green smoothie that has just the right amount of fruit. If you use a standard-size blender, you will need to halve this recipe. Although my basic blender works okay for this recipe, I have to remember to add enough water and blend the smoothies long enough or they are too thick and still contain small particles of greens. If you have a Blendtec or a Vita-Mix, they will do a much better job of blending these smoothies. Recipe from The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook, by Alissa Segersten and Tom Malterre. Published with permission.Vibrant Fruity Green Smoothie (Fruity Medicine Chest Smoothie)
Ingredients
Optional Additions
Instructions
Notes
Amy Green - Simply Sugar & Gluten-Free says
Hi Shirley – I L-O-V-E green smoothies. They are a perfect way to rehydrate after being out in the Texas sun. I usually juice spinach, celery, cucumbers, and a carrot and then whirl it all up in the blender.
I have a fear of certain foods, too, but I’ve learned to branch out like you’re doing. It still requires an effort on my part. 🙂
Shirley says
Hey Amy–How cool to know that you are a lover of green smoothies and also afraid of certain foods. 😉 It’s always nice to find a kindred spirit and realize that if he/she advanced to eating more foods, you can, too. So you juice, but then blend into a smoothie? Does juicing first help extract more nutrients? I love the fresh taste of cucumbers so I’ll try adding them soon. I like spinach as an ingredient a lot and carrots fine, too, but celery … hmm. I’ll try it though. I have some in the fridge right now.
Thanks so much for sharing your personal experience and suggestions, Amy!
Shirley
Sue says
This actually sounds better than I thought. I’ve been reading about lots of people drinking green smoothies and thinking “ewww”.
Thanks for providing a recipe, I may actually try it.
I have been making my own sorbets when fruit is past peak. I add the fruit, a cup of water, a squirt of lemon juice, and Splenda, to taste (up to 1/4 C).
Freeze, then put back in blender and blend. Yumm!
I have tried this individually with blueberries, cantaloupe and bananas. Love them!
Shirley says
Sue–Welcome to gfe! The “ewww” was definitely my first response. I must admit that each time I drink one, I’m newly, but happily surprised. Please give this recipe a try and report back. I think you’ll be happy you did. 🙂
Thanks for the info on the sorbets! Your flavors sound very appealing and a geat way to use fruit. I don’t do Splenda and we raise bees, so I think I’ll try a few with honey. I just purchased an ice cream/sorbet maker so I could give that a try, but I’ve made “ice cream” using coconut milk, bananas, and vanilla only before (per CoconutGal’s recipe, but I skipped the vanilla) and it’s wonderful. So blenders can be all you need!
Shirley
Lauren says
Yum! This sounds delicious, regardless of the colour =D. I would have to say that I’ve learned to love tomatoes. When I was little, something about their slimyness turned me away, but now, I can eat them whole and love snacking on cherry and grape tomatoes!
Shirley says
Hi, Lauren!–Thanks so much for commenting … you just don’t expect such greenness in a drink LOL, but it’s really great.
Thanks again for my award–you really made my day! Like I said before, I’m honored to be in such good company and so appreciate your kindness. 🙂
Shirley
gaile says
Wow. I’ve been thinking for months that this whole green smoothie thing sounded interesting but have been hesitant to try it. I will give this recipe a go. I don’t have a vitamix, but I do have a silver osterizer that can crush ice, so perhaps it can do this justice. I would love a copy of this book!
Shirley says
Hi there, Gaile–Welcome to gfe! See … you’re exactly in the same boat I was in before … reading and thinking, but not doing. I totally understand. But, finally, I bit the bullet and got the needed supplies and went for it. I’m so glad I did, because it added another energizing breakfast, lunch, “snack,” to my repertoire. Like I said in my post, it’s a great way to get in several fruits and veggies. You get the nutrition without all the heaviness or fuss of several individual servings or dishes. Win-win! 🙂
Shirley
Shirley says
Gaile–Forgot to say that the blender I use is an Osterizer and it’s not the silver version, but it crushes ice, too, so you shouldn’t have any problems making these smoothies with your blender. 🙂
Shirley
Katrina (gluten free gidget) says
I have learned to love avacados! I was always petrified and disgusted by them. Now, I find myself craving them. Crazy, right?!
Shirley says
Hey, Katrina–Welcome to gfe! I’ve seen you other places on the gf “interwebs.” 🙂 Thanks so much for participating and sharing your newfound love of avocadoes! I didn’t try avocadoes for years either. Guacamole? No way. I used to say I didn’t like foods when I hadn’t even tried them before. How silly. I sometimes crave avocados now, too. Certainly when I cut one open, I usually end up eating a good amount, if not all of it. I think it’s the good fat in them that makes us want them so much. Our bodies just want that fat. Another way to feed our brain, and there are so many other bennies of eating them. 🙂
Shirley
Tricia Z says
This sounds like a great book! I have learned to love spicy food from my friends, and fried plantains too!
Shirley says
Hi, Tricia–Welcome to gfe! Yes, The Whole Life Nutrition Book is a wonderful resource that everyone should have. 🙂
Spicy foods … another food area that I held out on for years (friends used to try to slip jalapenos into my soup pot while camping LOL), but like you I’m enjoying spicy foods more and more. Spicy food has a lot of health benefits, too. Now fried plantains–those are just plain wonderful! I first sampled them in the tropics years ago and then a dear friend’s daughter made them for us. We snacked while we watched movies. Yum.
Thanks so much for commenting!
Shirley
Renee G says
I have learned to love raw broccoli.
rsgrandinetti@yahoo(dot)com
Shirley says
Hey there, Renee–Welcome to gfe! Ah, little “trees” as my son always called them. 😉 Good stuff. I didn’t eat broccoli until I was in my mid-20’s. I started eating it for the health benefits when I was pregnant and found out I loved it, raw and cooked.
Thanks so much for participating in the giveaway and sharing your personal food evolution!
Shirley
Casey M says
Eggplant. My mother never really knew how to cook with it, but once I learned how to sweat it, I use it in many dishes. My kids even love it! I have never tried a green smoothie. I’m a little afraid of the kale in there (seems like it would make it bitter), but I’ll usually try anything once:)
Shirley says
Casey–Hi! Welcome to gfe! It’s wonderful to see so many new folks here sharing the foods they’ve learned to love. 🙂 I might call on you to be my eggplant mentor. I’m willing, but haven’t tried it yet. It looks so beautiful though and Mr. GFE loves eggplant parmigiana. Just need to make it using one of my easy gf breading recipes … maybe one with some cornmeal.
I thought exactly the same thing about the kale, but no, it doesn’t make the smoothie bitter at all. I promise. I usually can only use one leaf though because of the size of my blender. Give it a try and let us know when you do.
Thanks!
Shirley
Jennifer R. says
Shirley, it’s funny you post this, as I’m drinking a green smoothie right now (arugula, white peach, banana, and chia seeds, plus water and ice). Delicious! I would LOVE to win a copy of their book, as I have been hooked on green smoothies for about 4 months now. My kids even love them too. I use my VitaMix everyday — what a great investment for the kitchen (my old blender was on it’s last legs — it was 20 years old!!).
I’m pretty adventurous with trying new foods, so I’ll have to think of something that I now eat that I didn’t try before 🙂 I have made my smoothies with organic dandelion greens…
Shirley says
Jennifer–Ah, a girl who is already part of the green smoothie club! Love that, and boy that does sound like a good one. I’m thinking we should have a green smoothie demo at one of our upcoming meetings. What do you think? Have VitaMix, will travel … ? We could get Jennifer #2 to bring her Blendtec and we could really crank some out. I bet we’d convert a lot of members in short fashion! And, thanks for pointing out that kids love them, too. I recall Ali saying her kids did not find them appealing if she added anything that made them look brown LOL … perfectly understandable. Oh, organic dandelion geens–wow, very cool, but it’s a darn shame you can’t just pick those out of one’s yard safely any more.
Thanks!
Shirley
Jennifer R. says
Shirley, I’d be happy to help out at a meeting and bring my vitamix and smoothie ingredients… but I will miss this months meeting… we’ll be at the beach for the week. I’m sad to miss all my new GF friends!
A friend of mine was over today and she had never had a green smoothie before. I made her one and she was a quick convert! I just put one banana, a handful of organic baby spinach, 1 TBSP flax seeds, 1 cup water and 1 cup of ice — she LOVED it. This is a good one for kids to try too.
Shirley says
Hi again, Jennifer–No worries on the meeting next week … I remember that you’ll be away. Maybe the next meeting would be good for our smoothie extravaganza … we’ll talk about it more later.
That recipe does sound like a good introductory green smoothie! Green smoothie lovers converting the world … one smoothie and one person at a time. 😉
Enjoy the beach, and, of course, we’ll miss you, too! (Email me about Sept. dates that will not work for you, please.)
Shirley
Nadine says
I identify with your comments about scoffing that you could never love green smoothies. So maybe I should try!!
Shirley says
Hi Nadine–Welcome to gfe! I’m tickled by how many food finicky sisters I have out there. 🙂 Yes, give this recipe a try. I think you’ll be really surprised.
Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting!
Shirley
christina says
We love making green smoothies too! I would love to win a copy of this book. My daughter has had skin problems this past year, and I’m experimenting with gluten free. It looks like it’s the answer for her. So I would love any help I can get. And free is even better! Thanks.
Shirley says
Hey, Christina–Welcome to gfe! Already a convert—love it! Thanks for entering the giveaway. Yes, gluten is very often a factor in skin issues. Dr. Rodney Ford, “Doctor Gluten” of New Zealand, has shared a lot of info regarding the effect of gluten on skin. Here’s a YouTube video he did on eczema being related to gluten. IMO (shared by some, and not shared by others), when one has skin issues with gluten, one should also look at skin products that contain gluten and remove those from use as well.
I hope that your daughter continues to improve, but I recommend getting her tested for celiac before going completely gluten free. Once an individual is gluten free, the celiac testing will not be accurate and false negatives could occur. Of course, if she tests negative for celiac and you still choose for her to go gluten free, that’s your choice and right (and one I wholeheartedly encourage). Please don’t hesitate to email me if I can be of help in making the transition to gluten free. FYI–There are several helpful resource pages on the gfe sidebar under gfe’s tip sheets. They can help you take the gluten free easily approach, which means focusing on foods, main dishes, treats, etc. that are naturally gf or can easily be made gf. 🙂 It’s a much easier, healthier, less expensive route to take than the often used approach of substitutng everything that contains gluten (i.e., most processed products) with a processed product that’s gf.
Best,
Shirley
Jessie at Blog Schmog says
I’ll raise a green smoothie glass to you and my fellow picky eaters learning to love real food! Ya hoo!
Shirley says
Ah, Jessie–Another member of the picky eater club! Who knew there were so many of us out there? LOL Nothing like a giveaway to get us all out in the open. Confession is good for the soul, right? 😉
Thanks for stopping by, dear!
Shirley
Janine says
This made me laugh! My mom was making green smoothies this spring but the smoothie was red from beets. When I handed one to my husband he was deceived by its beautiful red color and took a big drink expecting it to be sweet. He had a hard time swallowing that drink! I’d love to get more veggies in my daily routine and what a great resource to have to make that happen.
Janine
Shirley says
Hey Janine–Welcome to gfe! I’m glad I gave you a chuckle and brought back a funny memory. 😉 We have some beet lovers who are gfe readers, so they probably would have loved that red smoothie. I think I would have been like your hubby though. I haven’t evolved to beets yet … baby steps. LOL It really is surprising what an easy and delicious way it is to add fruits and veggies to one’s diet by making these smoothies. 🙂
Enjoy!
Shirley
glutenfreeforgood says
I love green smoothies and this one of Tom’s looks divine. Don’t you just love the color?! I do a bit of what Janine is suggesting here by adding some beets every so often. Either way, you can’t go wrong.
YES, and Tom and Ali’s book is also wonderful. It’s a great resource for health as well as a delicious cook book. The thing I like most about it is the ease in which you can whip up the recipes. Simple food — I love that!
Great post Shirley! Someone’s going to be on cloud nine with this one.
Melissa
xo
Shirley says
Hi, Melissa–Thanks for checking in and thanks for your kind words as always! I do love the color of these smoothies. They taste as fresh and vibrant as the color. It’s really hard to explain to someone who hasn’t tried a green smoothie before. They taste completely unlike I expected and that’s a good thing! 😉 I knew you’d be on the beet thing. LOL You might have noticed in my motorcycle trip report that I ate some beets in an appetizer. Baby steps.
I so agree with your review of Tom and Ali’s book. Their whole food recipes can be delightfully simple, naturally gluten free and even naturally free of so many other foods that folks are intolerant to. Yes, at the end of the month, there will be a very grateful winner!
Shirley
Kristen's Raw says
YUM for green smoothies! I can’t imagine my life without either of them. I had a large one earlier today and I’m already getting excited about the next one I make later… I think it’ll be spinach, apple, pear, nutmeg, cinnamon, kale, and lemon. Yum!!!!!!
Cheers,
Kristen
Shirley says
Welcome to gfe, Kristen! Oh, that smoothie you mention sounds great. So many nutritional benefits in those particular fruits and veggies, plus the cinnamon and nutmeg.
Just checked out your raw blog, Kristen’s Raw, very briefly (will look more for sure)! I had no idea that Saturday was International Green Smoothie Day. Ali had given me the heads up that my post came a day later. How cool and what fun! I like your advice: “Make it and SEE FOR YOURSELF!!!” I’d love it if everyone reading would give this recipe from Tom a try. 🙂
Thanks so much for stopping by, Kristen … I’ll be checking out your blog more. 🙂
Shirley
Katie says
I just started drinking green smoothies this summer, and I love them! I’ll have to try out this version. I’ve never used cabbage before, and that sounds really interesting.
I’ve also come to enjoy beets recently. I used to despise the things, but now I enjoy them if they’re roasted (I’m still not a fan of the pickled ones, though!).
Shirley says
Hi, Katie–Welcome to gfe! I just took a quick peek at your blog … another great gf blog–love it (and drooling over the Greek Shrimp! Love the title, too–Eat this.
So you’re a recent smoothie convert, too? 🙂 Cabbage has so many benefits and it just gives it a little more pungency … not something you necessarily think you would be looking for, but it definitely works!
I’m not much into pickled things either (just a little sweet relish in tuna salad and such is my limit). But, now on your recommendation, I’ll have to give the roasted, unpickled beets more of a chance. 🙂
Shirley
Teri says
hey Shirley!I’m going to make this smoothie tomorrow for breakfast! I’ve been juicing 2 carrots, 3 celery ribs, 1 apple, and a handful of grapes. I drink this almost every morning. I’ve been looking for other smoothie recipes. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Teri
Shirley says
Hey Teri–So good to see you here at gfe! I just finished today’s smoothie for breakfast (it’s Friday … I got to sleep in—heaven). Your juicing sounds terrific, too. I really like the grape factor. I’m thinking some red seedless grapes would be nice in a variation of this smoothie. 🙂 Hope you made this recipe and enjoyed it!
Shirley
P.S. Hope you’ll be able to make our support group meeting next week. I just made an SCD version of the 3-minute chocolate cake last night! I could easily make one when we’re all gathered on Tuesday 😉
Tamara says
I think this green smoothie is awesome. I had my doubts, but when I got the right combination of ingredients the second time around, I was hooked! I have no idea if I’m gluten intolerant, etc, all I know is I didn’t feel good anymore and I needed to make changes in my diet and lifestyle. I am a medical transcriptionist and while researching something for a report I was transcribing I happened upon Tom and Ali’s website, Whole Life Nutrition. It intrigued me enough to get their 2nd edition book from the library, read it, then order one to buy. As I was anxiously awaiting the shipment (as it was out of stock), I checked out the 1st edition of their book from the library until my book arrived. I consider it my “bible” and I carry it everywhere with me. My husband and son think I’m nuts, but they are willing participants in trying all my new recipes and they actually like them! I also appreciate their blog and all the links connecting to me to other great sites such as yours. I’ve been thinking about pizza and what kind of crust to make and just saw your flourless recipe which looks very yummy! Can’t wait to try it. My next goal is to get my sister to read their book as she is a newly diagnosed diabetic and needs to make some changes and I’m hoping this will be what she needs. Their book was so informative that it was easy for me to make change. Thanks Shirley, Tom, Ali and all the rest out there who take their time to keep us informed. It is much appreciated.
Shirley says
Hi, Tamara–Welcome to gfe! Wow, thanks for sharing so much of your personal story. I truly love it when folks do that. First, I am thrilled to hear when you and others are taking a new gf path to good health. Second, I think sharing one’s story helps others who are struggling as to whether to go down the path or are halfheartedly on the path. Last, thanks for sharing your feedback on Tom and Ali’s wonderful efforts. I’m so glad the info they were sharing “clicked” for you. I love your line about your husband and son thinking you are nuts, but being willing participants. Been there, done that! LOL It makes all the difference in the world when family members let you try a new approach and stand behind you as you experiment in the kitchen. But, when you have recipes that are like Tom and Ali’s or others that are naturally gluten free (or easily made gluten free with the addition/substitution of just a few ingredients), they taste terrific and you don’t have tons of “weird food” issues that some folks experience when going gluten free.
It’s wonderful that you are helping your sister investigate the gf and whole food path as well. You may have already discovered that there’s a genetic connection between diabetes and celiac/gluten intolerance. So, their approach can definitely help her. The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook is just a great resource book and easy to read, like you said. 🙂
Thanks so much for your positive feedback to me and gfe, too—it means a lot!
Shirley
Lynne says
I found the Whole Life Nutrition book earlier this summer. The recipes are wonderful!!! The Adzuki Bean and Rice Salad is a hit with everyone who tries it. I also love the Cucumber, Tomato and Basil Salad. I am planning on purchasing another book to donate to the library of the Gluten Intolerant Group to which I belong.
Shirley says
Hi, Lynne–Welcome to gfe! I so agree with you on Ali and Tom’s book, and how neat that you will be providing a copy to your support group! 🙂 I have yet to try the Adzuki Bean and Rice Salad, but need to soon. It’s looks so appealing and gets rave reviews like yours. 🙂
Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting!
Shirley
Linda says
This is a great post. I enjoy green smoothies…my husband is making me one for breakfast right now. I enjoy the energy they provide. I do have a mental issue of thinking I’d rather have a muffin but I am learning I can have the smoothie first and a muffin later…best of both worlds. 🙂
About being picky about foods…that’s totally me. I have been vegetarian for over 10 years and people tease me that I am a vegetarian that doesn’t like many vegetables…but I’ve come a long way. I still can’t eat a mushroom but we love zucchini and other squashes which I use to hate. I am learning to cook with onions which I have always detested. So I am making some progress and enjoying the journey.
The cook book sounds just great, thanks for the chance at it. 🙂
Shirley says
Hey, Linda–Welcome to gfe! I am loving see the new faces here the last few days. 🙂 And, so many folks who struggle with new foods … like the two of us. I only learned to eat mushrooms the last year or so, so keep the faith that it will happen. 😉 Your progress has been great though. One at a time … I think we’ll get there!
You’re right, green smoothies really do provide amazing energy. That was such a surprise to me. Still, I know what you are saying about the muffin being more appealing though. But, choosing both is a win-win like you said. Having your hubby hand you a green smoothie sure makes it easy to say yes to smoothies before muffins. Very nice.
Good luck on the giveaway!
Shirley
Keegan says
Your green smoothie looks quite tasty. I think that it’s about time I hop on board with this smoothie trend and try one out. I think your inclusion of pears is what has tipped my taste buds over the edge. One of my fav fruits that I hadn’t considered in a smoothie before. Over the past few months I’ve learned to love so many veggies that I never considered in the past. I was far too picky. My new loves include portobellos and eggplant. I gagged over these in the past and now I’m always looking for recipes to include them
Shirley says
Hi Keegan–Welcome to gfe! Tom and Ali get all the credit for this smoothie recipe—such a winning recipe, with some flexibility for seasonal fruit and likes and dislikes. It’s funny you mention pears because I hadn’t eaten any in years and using them in smoothies has me loving them again on their own, too. So sweet and refreshing all by themselves, but they really do help make this recipe delicious. 🙂
Thanks for sharing your own personal struggles with veggies. It sure sounds like you are winning the battle, and in a big way. Portobellos are one I’ve really learned to enjoy myself, but eggplants are still on my “learn to love” list. Comments like yours and others here on eggplant have me convinced it won’t be long! Please try this green smoothie and report back–thanks so much!
Shirley
michelle says
Thank you so much for the green smoothie recipe, I have been wanting to make one of these but didn’t know where to begin. Thank you again. Michelle
Shirley says
Hi there, Michelle!–Welcome to gfe! I saw lots of green smoothie recipes before trying this one from Tom and Ali. Most I would dismiss because there were ingredients I didn’t like or it didn’t seem they’d be sweet enough. (I didn’t want to have to add sweetener.) This one with its ingredients, fresh green look, and Ali and Tom’s children’s endorsement really appealed to me. Okay, the kale seemed like a stretch for me LOL, but I like it just fine in this smoothie. And, I know it and all the other ingredients are contributing so much to my health. 🙂
Thanks so much for commenting … can’t wait to find out what you think when you give this recipe a try!
Shirley
Diane-thewholegang says
Again, like you, I am slow to try new foods. I’ve been eying this smoothie and listening to you rave about it. It just might get me off the fence. I’ll grab the ingredients this weekend at the farmer’s market and give it a go. I wonder if I can get my other half to give it a try.
A note on the cookbook. It’s amazing. I have a copy and I give it away as a gift all the time. It’s a great book even you are not trying to live gluten free. They have great recipes in there and so much great info. I love it. Whoever wins that book will be one lucky person. If my name comes up, toss it back in and pick someone else so they can enjoy the book too.
Shirley says
Diane–I think if you make Tom’s smoothie recipe and enjoy it as much as the rest of us (which I really think you will), then your other half will be willing to try it as well. As you can see in the comments, several of us have discovered the power and pleasure of the green smoothie recently. And, we used to be “non-believers” like yourself …
I love that you are giving away Ali and Tom’s terrific book to others. It IS a great book for all. It’s quite an amazing resource indeed. I’m sure everyone else will be grateful that you are passing on your entry 😉
… seriously, very gracious.
Shirley
juli pearson says
green smoothies are my favorite! i add a little hemp powder and or sunflower seeds for a protein kick. im a new fan of ali and tom’s. they inspire me to once again love food, despite no gluten or dairy. thanks for posting this, and for the chance at the give-away.
Shirley says
Hi, Juli–Welcome to gfe! Another smoothie lover with more suggestions for us. 🙂 I really need my protein so I like your additions a lot.
I love hearing from fans of Tom and Ali’s. Your words are very telling and a huge part of their mission for follks after they give up foods they are intolerant to—inspiring you to once again love food, despite no gluten or dairy. And, for some folks, that includes no sugar, too. They are really are so helpful and inspiring to many!
Thanks so much for stopping by with your suggestions and joining in the giveaway, Juli,
Shirley
Diane-thewholegang says
OK, I got my friend to make it with me. We really liked it. It however made way too much to drink in one day. Hubby thought it tasted good but not sure he’ll drink it. I’ll keep trying.
Shirley says
Diane–Yippee! You did it! You don’t have to drink it in one day though. That’s the beauty of this batch of smoothies. As Ali explained on her blog (I think), the lemon juice keeps the ingredient fresh. I’ve had mine in the fridge for two or three days after making them with no loss of quality at all. (I either leave in the blender pitcher or put in another glass jar so I can clean the blender right away.) And, that’s fantastic because it means you have your breakfast or snack already made for you. 🙂 You can even pour them in your mobile beverage container so you can just pull it out the fridge as you go out the door. Just a shake or two while drinking and you’re ready to go. Sounds like a wonderful solution to your current soccer mom mode to me. 😉 I bet hubby will drink it if you put it in front of him ready to go. He’ll drink it because he’ll realize how much better it makes him feel, not just that it tastes good.
Thanks very much for reporting back!
Shirley
Karen K says
Hi Shirley (gfe)
I have been following your blog for a few months now and love some of the recipes. But you really got me with the Green Smoothie. I have been wanting to start to make these but was always worried they would taste to “Green”.
Im now on my 2nd day of having a green smoothie for breakfast and Im looking forward to experimenting. Also the website/blog for Whole Life Nutrition is excellant. Im hooked on Ali’s blog now too.
Thanks for being you!
Shirley says
Hi Karen–Your comment brought special joy to me today. Allow me to explain. We have another equally delightful Karen K in our support group and I thought she was checking in after some time away, but then I saw your URL info and that you are new to posting here at gfe! So, I was expecially tickled by that and your very, very nice comments. Welcome to gfe! Even though you say you’ve been following for a few months now. 🙂 I love the name of your blog, Celiac Who? How appropriate is that! We’ve all faced that deer in the headlights or frowning/scowling look when we mention celiac. LOL
Bravo on trying the green smoothies! I can’t guarantee that some green smoothies don’t taste too green, but Tom and Ali’s sure don’t. And, yes, there blog is excellent … so glad you are now a fan.
🙂 , but thanks again regarding that last comment … yep, WYSIWYG here (that’s What You See Is What You Get for non-acronymn, non-software world folks). Karen, please report back if you come up with any great new variations on the smoothies!
Shirley
Heather says
This smoothie sounds wonderful and I will have to give it a try, since I’m still having issues getting all my veggies.
As for a food I’ve learned to love, it’s avocado. I used to have an overall aversion to green foods and have been slowly adding them into my diet over the last five or six years pretty steady. So far, my favorite has been the creamy richness of a ripe avocado. I have used them in place of mayo on sandwiches and will likely do so more now that I have gf bread.
Shirley says
Hi, Heather–We have a few Heathers here, but from your info, it looks like you’re new to gfe, so welcome! I’m excited that you will be trying this smoothie as it really is a great way to get in your veggies (and more fruits—without added sugar) and feel really good as a result.
Ah, avocado … now one of my favorites, too. For years I didn’t eat avocado either and have really enjoyed them just in nice slices or chunks, and spreads. Like you stated they are a great replacement for mayo. You can pick up an avocado for .99 or less … far better as a snack than something out of a machine or the counter at the convenience store.
Thanks so much for sharing,
Shirley
Diane-thewholegang says
I put the blender in the refrigerator and when I checked back the next day it looked a little too green. I’ll see how it tastes I guess. It would be nice to have one ready to go. I already had to half the recipe for my blender. Now I’m wishing I had one of those fancy Vita Mixer. I keep seeing great recipes using those machines. Do you have one?
Shirley says
Good evening, Diane–Just finished up support group meeting. 🙂 No, I don’t have a VitaMix. I’m using a mid-range Osterizer blender. I do want to get something a little more heavy duty. I’m leaning more towards a Blendtec, but I believe we’ll have a smoothie themed meeting in Sept. or Oct. and there will be both a VitaMix and a Blendtec in operation so I’ll see what I think then. I’m sure that smoothie was just fine the next day. I drink my other half the next day all the time and it’s such a treat to have it there ready and waiting.
Shirley
Diane-thewholegang says
I just noticed you have a reply on your comments. Very cool tool. I’m so observant. I made the smoothie again today. I have a glass in the frig for tomorrow and I took one in the car for soccer today. I was drinking it with a straw. This did not work out very well for me. It seems that all of liquid came out through the straw and I was left with any of the solids in the cup. So from now on when it goes with me on the road I’ll just drink it from the cup. Still like it and love how I feel.
Shirley says
Diane–That change got made with my last few updates … thanks for noticing. 🙂 I was having the same issue at first with the smoothies. Finally, I realized that that I wasn’t adding enough liquid, so I added more water and/or some POM. Ideally, there should be no green smoothie “sludge” at the bottom. I drink mine with a straw. It’s much easier in the car that way. They do make you feel really good! 🙂
Shirley
Jen says
We love green smoothies here. It took a while to get my girls on board, but after hiding greens in blueberry smoothies a few times, I let them in on what I was doing. They still don’t go for the really green ones, but blueberry and spinach goes down great!
I used to be a picky eater, too. As an adult, I became much more adventurous and started liking different foods from around the world. So ironic (and frustrating) that now I need to eat GF and don’t feel safe going into an unknown restaurant or eating at just anyone’s house.
Shirley says
Hi Jen–Welcome to gfe! Oh, I can see where blueberries and spinach would make great smoothies. We often have that combo in salads for our meetings. It’s funny how much we are enticed (or not) by color. I really like the fresh green and with the proliferation of funky sports drinks and wildly colored sodas, you’d think the kids would go for the vibrant green. But, my axiom is: whatever works! You have them on board with drinking smoothies, even after you told them, and that’s a good thing. 🙂
The safety factor is an issue for sure. From the glass half full standpoint though, isn’t it great that we learned to eat so many more real foods that are naturally gluren free? There are so many more for me to learn to eat. Restaurants and the homes of friends who serve real food in wonderful ways and know what’s in their recipes are the best places to frequent. It is such a gift to be fed safely.
Thanks so much for commenting and entering the giveaway!
Shirley
Jocelyn says
oh the green smoothie– it frightens me!! But- being diagnosed Celiac 2 years ago has forced me out of my “comfort food bubble” and my new motto is to try anything once. I’ll give this green smoothie deal a try– especially considering I arrived at work today with jam on my dress from eating toast in the car on the way to work! lol! there has to be an easier breakfast dish!
This was my first visit to your blog- i love it!! congrats on such a great job- I look forward to reading much more from you!!
Shirley says
Hi Jocelyn–Welcome to gfe! Your response made me chuckle … so many of us are scared of green foods and smoothies that we think will taste horrid. And, there probably are some of them out there that do, but, fortunately, this one isn’t one of them. Bravo for jumping out of the comfort food bubble! The other part that made me chuckle was the jam factor. 😉 How many of us have been there? I’d like to say I’ve learned not to eat messy foods in the car, but I’m still learning. LOL One of the breakfast foods I eat in the car (when I’m not drinking my green smoothie) is a fried egg/omelet deal. I just pick it up with my fingers and eat as I go down the road. If a piece gets dropped, it doesn’t do any harm. 😉
Thank you so very much for the kind words. I truly appreciate them and look forward to seeing you here more! I hope you’ll try out Ali and Tom’s green smoothie recipe and report back, too.
Shirley
Cindi says
I’m a smoothie fan, so will definitely give this one a try. I’m catching up on your postings. Working in an office again after 2 years has been seriously cramping my style!! Everything has been squeezed in during the evening hours or on weekends. Gotta get used to that again!
Shirley says
Hi Cindi–So glad you stopped by and are catching up! 😉 You know I understand what you are saying about the office environment, even when you love the work and the folks you work with. Now who would have ever thought we’d both be drinking smoothies? We are getting older and wiser. 😉 LOL
Shirley
Ellen says
green smoothies are one of the foods that i’ve learned to love! first time i had one, it was a bottled variety with a less than fantastic flavor and a disconcerting graininess. then, i threw a handful of spinach into my favorite smoothie recipes and i’ve been a convert ever since!
Shirley says
Hi, Ellen–Welcome to gfe! Another Ellen to add to the mix of readers, love that—thanks so much for stopping by to comment! 🙂
Doesn’t that make you wonder how many folks are making do with those “less than fantastic” bottled green smoothies as you say? (Your comment kind of reminds me of the less than fantastic, packaged gf baked goods that are out there … especially the graininess part. One doesn’t have to make do with those either.) Spinach is amazing, isn’t it? I didn’t eat spinach for most of my life and now I crave the stuff. Like you, I love it in my green smoothies. I have one in the fridge right now that I’m going to enjoy later. It has quite a lot of spinach in it. Popeye would be proud of us, right? LOL
I’m so glad you entered the giveaway–thanks!
Shirley
Alisa - Frugal Foodie says
Ooh, I just love green smoothies too! I have never been a picky eater when it comes to fruits and vegetables, so nothing new for me that I can think of!
I was actually looking at that book the other day when I found their blog. It sounds awesome! We have really cut out most grains, and can use some ideas.
Shirley says
Alisa–Hi! I’m envious of you being a non-picky eater! I’m not there … yet. Yippee–all the green smoothie lovers are coming out of the shadows. 😉
Yes, Ali and Tom’s book is wonderful. I think you’ll find some great new ideas there … simple ones, too.
I hope some of my gfe readers are regulars at your blog, One Frugal Foodie, and have discovered your big giveaway of Pamela’s Products. 🙂 If I remember correctly, it ends tomorrow, Tuesday, Sept. 1. It certainly is rewarding (and fun!) to be able to share products that we enjoy and value with our readers.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Shirley
Kristin says
Wow! That book seems like a wonderful resource! We are truly smoothie people here, and I’ve often put kale into a smoothie. But I’ve never considered adding romaine and cabbage too- I’ll have to do it while my children aren’t looking!
Shirley says
Hello, Kristin–Welcome to gfe! Ah, a smoothie veteran. 🙂 I bet your children won’t notice a thing, except maybe they’ll like this recipe better and just not know why. 😉 And, if they are already enjoying kale in their smoothies, they probably won’t be too hard to convince. It’s usually the kale that most folks balk at. My favorite combo is with the kale, spinach, and cabbage … I think—until I find my next favorite blend.
Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting. Hope to see you again!
Shirley
Kris says
That smoothie looks amazing, can’t wait to try it.
Shirley says
Kris–Hi, there! Welcome to gfe! It really is as wonderful as it looks. First, there’s the great, fresh taste … then there’s the way they make you feel!
Shirley
Christina says
We would LOVE a copy of that cookbook. We’re newly dairy free and are always looking for new things to try while we are adjusting to our new lifestyle.
That smoothie looks fantastic!
Shirley says
Hi, Christina–Welcome to gfe—nice to see you here! I think you’ll find The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook very helpful. 🙂 I’m amazed at what wonderful recipes Ali and Tom come up with that are dairy free and so tasty, like Ali’s “Cheesy” Zucchini Bake that she shared the other day. I’ve already made it twice and it will become a regular on our menus. 🙂
The smoothie is a winner!
Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting!
Shirley
Sara says
I am a relatively new vegan, celebrating my one year anniversary tomorrow, September 1. I have come to love so many things this past year. I have to say I think my all time favorite is the banana. It used to be just a yellow fruit to be enjoyed as a snack or as a part of my lunch. I have learned that bananas can go in drinks, foods as a binding agent. It can be an appetizer when baked. It can also be a baked desert. Both of my kids and I enjoy them in their natural state as well as a part of another dish.
I scour Twitter and the Internet for new recipes that we can discover and add to our repertoire. I look forward to learning to appreciate other foods in the same way we have learned to love bananas!
Shirley says
Hey, Sara–Welcome to gfe and congrats on your anniversary date! I know what adopting a new diet successfully can mean to one. 🙂 I really appreciate your thoughtful comments on bananas. I have to agree that they are often taken for granted, but can add so much flexibility in dishes. I have made two flourless chocolate banana cakes (one a 3-minute version!) recently and just loved them. They were not vegan as they contained eggs, but I think they could be made egg-free a number of ways. Ali and Tom have many wonderful vegan recipes in their book and on their site.
Don’t you love finding new wonderful recipes? It’s something I’ve done seemingly forever. LOL Now I really like adapting them to fit my needs and tastes. (In the old days, I tended to stick with the original exactly.)
Thanks so much for commenting! 🙂
Shirley
Nicole says
The green smoothie sounds very healthy but your review makes it sound yummy! I’m recently dairy-free and venturing into various recipes. I like the challenge and love trying new things. I still haven’t learned to love a peach and I’m giving eggplant another shot in a sandwich this week. Otherwise, I’m pretty open – if I don’t like it, I just throw the recipe out!
Shirley says
Hey Nicole–Welcome to gfe! It is yummy … surprisingly so, I’m honest to a fault—believe me. LOL BTW, Ali and Tom’s cookbook is great for dairy-free and many other options.
You made me chuckle appreciatively on the peach comment. I keep trying them myself. I have found one gluten-free, dairy-free way I like them though 😉 … stay tuned for that. I’m working on my eggplant tasting/liking, too. I usually pass any recipes that don’t pass muster with me on to other friends and family members who are not as picky. They are usually very happy not to be cooking.
Thanks so much for your comments!
Shirley
Diane-The WHOLE Gang says
I’m still making these smoothies although I change up the ingredients according to what’s in the refrigerator. I still have not tried this with the pomegranate juice. Time to get busy.
Thank you for sharing this on Friday Foodie Fix.
Shirley says
I think everyone does what you do, Diane—it just makes sense. 🙂 I start out following Ali and Tom’s original recipe, but change the ingredients as I run out of some items, have some different ones in the refrigerator for other recipes (and leftovers from meetings), a different mood strikes me, etc. I had one this morning that was the basic recipe less the spinach, but with coconut water instead of water, plus a banana, and POM Wonderful. Much paler green with a pinkish tint and delish.
I love it when I can add something to the Friday Foodie Fix over at The W.H.O.L.E. Gang. 🙂
Shirley
Beth says
Shirley – these look so good! I’m glad I found your (still catching up here, being a newbie reader : ) ). I’ve been really into “green” smoothies lately with kale. Since I don’t have a juicer (no money! no room in my kitchen!) I’m always looking for recipes that can be made in my blender to mix things up a bit from my usual kale-orange-lemon drink. Thanks for sharing!!
Shirley says
Hi Beth–Green smoothies are so terrific! This recipe from Ali and Tom taught me to love them. If I leave out even one green ingredient, I miss it. Using a blender, you need to be sure to add enough water or you’ll end up with some undrinkable “sludge” as I’m sure you already know. 😉 I’ve been making smoothies of every combination of late. Yesterday’s was some coconut milk, POM juice, coconut, lemon juice, spinach, romaine, kale, cabbage. a few dates, pineapple, chia seeds … I think that was all. So good! Not as green as this smoothie, but still super nutritious. Will have to check out your kale-orange-lemon drink! Today I’m eating an egg sauteed in olive oil with spinach … change of pace. 🙂
Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to comment!
Shirley
Jeni Sanders says
I have been making this drink every morning going on three weeks now. I am using the apples and greens from our garden. I love knowing that I am eating food from my garden and eating a no fat healthy breakfast. The only problem is the noise of the vita-mix wakes up my teenager and that after I aroused her with my chanting. Mothers can be so cruel!!!
Shirley says
Hi Jeni!–It looks like this is your first time commenting–welcome to gfe! 🙂 Oh, it’s fabulous that you are using your own fruits and veggies in your green smoothies. They are just so special and such a super healthy way to start the day! LOL on the Vita-mix waking up your teenager. Hmmm, seems like a lovely coincidence to me. 😉 Mothers of teenagers often need help in that dept. … well, at least I did. Spread the word on green smoothies. They are just such a great way to get in fruits and veggies and feel energized for the day!
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment! Hope to see you here at gfe again. 🙂
Shirley
Mary says
Dear Shirley,
You got me started with green smoothies – thank you so much! I’ve been using combinations of spinach, cabbage, ginger, cacao, maca powder, along with fruit (including lemons, apples, bananas, mango, peach, berries). But: I have hated the taste of kale and lettuce in my smoothies. Any advice about how to incorporate other greens? I found the taste of kale overwhelming and obnoxious.
Thanks,
Mary
Shirley says
Hi Mary–So good to see you again and very cool on bringing green smoothies into your life! 🙂 It sounds like you are doing wonderfully to me, dear. I wouldn’t worry too much about not liking kale in your smoothies. While I love it, some of my friends who are die-hard green smoothie fans hate it in their smoothies. Do you just add the leafy part and not the stalk? I started out just adding the leafy part and discarding the stalk. You still may not like it, but it’s an idea. I’d start out with just a small amount if you want to try again. Baby romaine is a good one to start with, too. I started by using half baby spinach and half baby romaine, but now will have all baby or regular romaine sometimes. I think it’s a gradual progress. You need to slowly cut back on the fruits and get in the greens. But if you never get past spinach and ginger, it’s not a bad thing. You’ve gotten farther than most folks. Nicola of GFree Mom hosted a wonderful series back in January called D-Tox January. There are lots of different smoothie recipes there. Here’s the link so you can take a look and perhaps get some more ideas. 🙂 Hope that helps, but big, big kudos on making the transition to green smoothies. You’re doing great, Mary!
Hugs,
Shirley
Therese says
Shirley, I’ve just had my second green smoothie in 2 days. Trying to make it a habit! Yesterday’s was fair, today’s delicious.
1 c frozen spinach leaves (trader joe’s)
2 fresh peaches
juice of 1/2 lemon
water.
For now I am working on getting to enjoy them, may alter ingredients later on to include more healthy things. For now I’m leaving out dairy and protein and treating it as a detox smoothie.
We shall see!
You inspired me, although it took 2 years to act! 🙂 Thanks, dear heart!
Shirley says
Yay, Therese!! Your smoothie from today sounds awfully good. 🙂 When a smoothie tastes fair, I just add more stuff until it tastes great. 😉 It’s easy to take a little sample before you serve yourself or others. There are so many ingredients that can take a fair smoothie to the delicious level, with just a small amount. Raw cacao or cocoa powder, a little honey or maple syrup, some banana, some coconut flakes, a bit of a ripe pear, a few blueberries/strawberries, etc. (frozen works fine if fresh is not available), some coconut milk/non-dairy yogurt, etc. The more that you make your smoothies and get the hang of it, the more delicious they will be, but you are on the right track for detox for sure! FYI: Some friends and I even created an ebook with detox recipes (mostly smoothies) for charity a while back, if you want to check it out.
Don’t worry about the time delay. I am so often like that on ideas. It took me months to start using the awesome Vita-mix that my blogger friends gave me for Christmas last year! Seriously.
xo,
Shirley