Save My roommate walked into the kitchen last summer and caught me dumping spinach into the blender at 7 AM, looking at me like I had completely lost my mind. Two minutes later, she was asking for a bowl, and now this is our Sunday morning ritual after yoga when we want something that feels indulgent but actually fuels us for the day.
I made these for my niece when she was visiting, and she was so suspicious of the green color until I told her it was a monster smoothie bowl. She finished the entire thing and then asked if we could have monster bowls every single morning of her visit.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves: This is the magic ingredient that makes everything bright green but you honestly cannot taste it behind all the sweet fruit
- 1 frozen banana: Slice it before freezing or your blender will work way too hard
- 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks: Mango adds this tropical sweetness that balances the earthy spinach perfectly
- 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks: Pineapple brings acidity and brightness
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk: Start with this and add more if needed
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds: These thicken everything up and add omega 3s
- 1 tablespoon nut butter: Totally optional but makes it so much creamier
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: Only if your fruit is not sweet enough
- 1/2 cup granola: The crunch is non negotiable
- 1/2 cup mixed fresh fruit: Kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, whatever looks good at the market
- 1 tablespoon shredded coconut: Adds this beautiful texture contrast
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or hemp seeds: For the topping because more crunch is always better
Instructions
- Blend your base:
- Throw everything from the smoothie base section into your blender and let it rip on high for about a minute
- Check the consistency:
- If it is too thick to blend, add almond milk a tablespoon at a time until it moves freely
- Test the texture:
- You want it thicker than a regular smoothie, almost like soft serve ice cream
- Pour and decorate:
- Divide between two bowls and go wild with your toppings
- Eat immediately:
- The longer it sits, the thinner it gets, so grab your spoon and dig in
Save This became my go to breakfast during finals week in college because I could make it in under five minutes and it kept me full through three hour lectures. Now it is just a happy weekend tradition that makes me feel like I have my life together.
Make It Your Own
I have swapped the tropical fruit for mixed berries in winter and it is just as good. The beauty is that you can use whatever frozen fruit you have on hand and it will work beautifully.
Protein Boost
Some mornings I add a scoop of vanilla protein powder and it turns this into a post workout meal that actually keeps me full until lunch. Just add a splash more almond milk if you do this.
Topping Ideas
The toppings are where you can get creative and make it look fancy for Instagram or just for your own enjoyment. I like keeping a variety in my pantry so I can switch things up.
- Sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds add extra crunch
- A drizzle of almond butter on top is absolute perfection
- Fresh mint leaves make it feel extra fancy
Save Hope this brings some bright green energy to your morning routine
Your Questions Answered
- → Can I prepare the smoothie base ahead of time?
Yes, blend the smoothie base up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir well before pouring into bowls, and add toppings just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
- → What frozen fruits work best as substitutes?
Peaches, berries, papaya, and acai are excellent alternatives to mango and pineapple. Mix and match based on availability and preference. Frozen fruits ensure a thick, creamy consistency without diluting with ice.
- → How do I make this more protein-rich?
Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the smoothie base. Greek yogurt, silken tofu, or hemp seeds also boost protein content while maintaining the bowl's smooth texture.
- → Is this suitable for dairy-free diets?
Absolutely. Use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of dairy. Replace any nut butter with seed butter if needed, and choose dairy-free granola and toppings for complete compliance.
- → Why does my smoothie base turn out too thick?
Gradually add more almond milk or your chosen liquid while blending until you reach the desired consistency. A thinner base pours easily into bowls, while a thicker blend holds toppings better.
- → What's the best way to prevent the granola from getting soggy?
Add granola immediately before serving. For a crunchier texture, sprinkle granola on top right before eating rather than mixing it into the smoothie base.