How to Make Mango, Mint & Spinach Taste Amazing Together
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Fellow Mama, this recipe is going to make your life so much better. The one complaint I hear over and over from moms everywhere is that the struggle to get greens into their kids (and themselves) is real. Now I have yet another way for this struggle to disappear. Say hello to your new best summer recipe; Mango Mint Green Smoothie (and Popsicle) Recipe!
Who is it for?
Anyone and everyone who wants to be healthier! Ok, let's get a little more specific. I find that you can "hide" just about anything in a smoothie or popsicle. So if you struggle to get more (or any) greens into your child's diet or your own diet, then this recipe is a great way to begin.
I repeat; kids will LOVE this smoothie!
Nutrition & Health Benefits
Each serving of this recipe has half a cup of frozen spinach in it! Wowza. Fear not, you won't taste it!
Spinach is really high in folate, vitamin A, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese as well as other nutrients. Also, spinach is well known to support eye health, strong bones, weight loss and can reduce hypertension. Did you know that it can also combat hair loss, cure acne, and help you look younger? I'll take an extra serving, please.
In addition to the health benefits from spinach, the other ingredients in this delicious smoothie offer many additional health benefits. For example, mint can improve digestive function and speed, or soothe upset tummies. Mangos are great for reducing high blood pressure, contain many enzymes to aid in digestion, and boost immunity from the high amounts of vitamin A & C that they contain. Yogurt is a great source of probiotics and protein. Finally, pineapple is also great for boosting the immune system and aiding in proper digestion.
Another great thing about smoothies is that they contain a lot of hydrating fluids, so keep on sipping during those hot summer months!
How to make Mango Mint Green Smoothie (and Popsicles)
But...what?!? Which one do I make?? One....both....doesn't matter! What are you in the mood for? They both taste amazing. Seriously, I have tested it on a tough audience...my family 😜.
Kitchen tools you will need:
A High powered blender. I have used my Vitamix every day for 6+ years and it has only exceeded my expectations. I seriously couldn't live without it. Many other less expensive brands will work fine but may not give you the smooth consistency that you desire in your smoothies.
Popsicle Molds (if you want to make popsicles): I actually like two different sizes of popsicle molds depending on what age child(ren) you have at home.
I use the Zoku Mini Pops for toddlers because the small size is so perfect for their small little hands and they can actually finish the popsicle before it melts all over them! My 4-year-old and 8-year-old still love these (even though my 8-year-old is well past the recommended age - he eats like 4 popsicles at a time!)
I also use these ziploc type BPA-free plastic popsicle molds for older kids. Bonus - these come with neoprene sleeves to keep their hands from freezing (we went through a lot of napkin-wrapping before finding these!) Another great thing about these popsicle molds is that they are disposable so you can take them to a park or sports game to share with others and not worry about collecting a bunch of reusable molds from all the kids. Not to mention losing them!
Smoothie Containers: This isn't really a "need" but I wanted to put my two cents in. Having the right gear can make your life easier and make it more likely that you actually drink smoothies more often! Sometimes, gear is everything!
We just bought these Glacier Point insulated water/smoothie/hot drink containers and we LOVE THEM! At a fraction of the cost of some of the brands carried in retail stores, these drink containers have performed perfectly. I also love that they come with two different cap styles. I like the straw style for smoothies and the screw top for coffee.
When it's a hot summer day, I love nothing more than whipping up a smoothie, tossing it in a mason jar and sitting on the back patio. Sometimes, it's all about presentation.
If you want to be eco-friendly and non-toxic, try out these silicone reusable straws. Love the colors!
Mango Mint Green Smoothie (and popsicle) Recipe
You will never know there is a whole cup of spinach in this recipe! Delicious & nutritious, this is an easy way to get more greens into your diet (or your child's) while enjoying a smoothie OR a popsicle! One recipe, two ways to enjoy!
1 cup water
1 cup frozen spinach
1 cup mango (frozen or fresh)
1/2 cup pineapple (frozen or fresh)
1/2 cup whole milk yogurt or kefir (plain)
1/4 cup mint leaves
1 Tbsp maple syrup (optional)
Add all ingredients to a high powered blender and blend for 2-3 minutes or until completely blended and smooth.
If making popsicles: pour into molds (add sticks if necessary) and freeze for at least 6-8 hours, ideally overnight.
If making smoothies: simply pour into a beverage container of your choice and enjoy! Add a mint sprig to make it look pretty (optional )
Mango Mint Green Popsicle made in Zoku popsicle molds
Tips for this recipe
Buy frozen spinach to save money and always have it on hand.
You can use fresh or frozen fruit but for the same reason as spinach, I buy frozen to save money and so that I can always have it in stock.
Kefir and yogurt both work well. Buy the organic, whole milk, plain yogurt or kefir to get all the healthy fats, reduce your sugar intake, and stay satisfied longer.
Encourage your kids to make this recipe with you! It's an easy recipe and they are more likely to eat or drink something that they helped make. This is a great way to introduce kids to cooking in the kitchen.
Try changing the name of this recipe to make it more fun for kids. Call it "The Hulk" (it's green like the Hulk) or "Green Monster Smoothie". Kids love crazy names for their food.
If you want more smoothie & popsicle recipes
First of all, subscribe to our email list to get all the new recipes and blog posts sent to your inbox! You will also get FREE access to the Resource Library (which already contains a bunch of goodies including 8 delicious and healthy smoothie recipes!)
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Then head on over to these other great blog posts for more ideas on how to get more greens and veggies into your diet without sacrificing great taste.
The Best Green Smoothies to Get Into the St. Patrick's Day Spirit
My Everyday Green Smoothie (with 5 servings of veggies and fruit)
Now you can sit back and enjoy your delectable and refreshing Mango Mint Green Smoothie or Popsicle. I'm willing to bet that you get repeated requests for this concoction. And won't you feel smug that you and your whole family is drinking (or sucking on) spinach and they don't even know it... 🙌
Cheers,
