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You are here: Home / Lifestyle / KERF Drinks Kale

December 2, 2009

KERF Drinks Kale

It is surprisingly easier for me to get up and go to the gym on rainy days then sunny ones. I think it has something to do with having to drive my car either way and the fact that it’s going to be dark all day. So I went straight to the gym after getting up this morning.

But first I satisfying a slightly grumbling stomach that was yelling for breakfast with a half banana + Nuttzo combo

IMG_0161 (640x427)

At the gym I tackled the Stairmaster again – no flames this time – and finished up on the Squirrelliptical. Saving my muscle strength for Sculpt tomorrow!

Once home I decided 1) to have either yogurt or a smoothie and 2) that we had lots of things to use up in the fridge, including kale. Sometimes when I make food decisions I think about what I’m going to have later that day. I’m planning on taking yogurt to class, so for the sake of variety, I had the smoothie (also to use up the kale!)

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I first blended a cup of milk, a small banana and a handful of ice. Then I added kale up to the top

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And then half a packet of Amazing Meal and a spoonful of Perfect Acai 

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I then had to add some frozen mango because the texture was awful. Actually, this whole smoothie was pretty bad. Not recommended! Do any of you guys have the perfect green monster recipe? (And without garlic or steaming – sorry Angela!) Just the right proportions of greens to banana to milk. Do you only use frozen bananas so you don’t use ice?

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The GRANOLA, however, comes highly recommended!

IMG_0169 (640x427)

Bob’s Red Mill hooked me up with some of their breakfasty items like granola, hot cereal and muesli. I had to open the Crunchy Coconut Granola immediately yesterday and it’s fantastic!!! SUPER crunchy and may be thick rolled oats? There are no clusters – just super crunchy oats. It’s the perfect sweetness too. And it’s actually pretty reasonably priced. Mmm!

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I went back for a little more when I got halfway through the smoothie.

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Might make a cup of coffee in a bit.

Currently listening to Ingrid Michaelson on Grooveshark and getting some computer work done.

xo

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Comments

  1. Anne [email protected] Weigh of Life says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:43 am

    For my green smoothies, I use frozen bananas and two-three handfuls of spinach. It works like a charm every time!

    Reply
  2. Anna @ Newlywed, Newly Veg says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:44 am

    Dang, Kath– that is a LOT of kale!!!

    I’ve had the same problem with kale-based gm’s (I’ve had mine turn out almost…stringy? And I have a vitamix, so I blend them up ALL the way, but it still doesn’t go completely smooth), so I usually only put spinach in mine now. My classic is usually:

    2 cups spinach
    1 cup almond milk
    1 small banana
    1 scoop protein powder
    ice

    That works for me!

    Have a great day!

    Reply
  3. Errign says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:44 am

    Hi Kath!

    I do baby spinach, vanilla soymilk, frozen banana & sometimes a scoop of peanut butter!

    Reply
  4. Anna @ Newlywed, Newly Veg says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:45 am

    Oh, and also– I made a barley pancake this morning and thought of your oatmeal pancakes of yore. I gave you a shout out 🙂

    Reply
  5. Marla says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:45 am

    Did Bob’s Red Mils give you any SCOTTISH OATMEAL to try?
    Hope so,cause I really think you’ll love it….well anyway I do! 😉

    Reply
    • Kath says

      December 2, 2009 at 1:14 pm

      YESSS!

      Reply
  6. Paige(Running Around Normal) says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:46 am

    I love using kale in my green monsters! I’d be willing to bet that a frozen banana makes a much better difference.
    That granola sounds very good! I like how it’s just crunchy little oatmeal flakes!

    Reply
  7. Cyclist Kate says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:47 am

    I never ever add ice to my smoothies. My green smoothies are always 2 c. of frozen fruit (mixed berries, mango, bananas…whatever I have), about 1/2 c. of some kind of juice ( I like green juice, grape juice, or OJ), and about 3-4 c. of greens (my favorite is kale but I use spinach sometimes too). I usually add 1 T. of flax stirred in at the end so it doesn’t congeal, and sometimes I add protein powder but more often not. I feel like the green smoothies need some kind of strongish flavor to carry them and adding ice and milk would just “water” it down. The tart berries and sweet juice do the trick for me.

    Reply
  8. skinnyrunner says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:53 am

    i had a green monster yesterday and although it was good, definitely didn’t fill me up. i dont think im doing something right…

    Reply
  9. megan says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:55 am

    I always use spinach instead of kale. I use 1 banana, about 3/4 cup of milk and a little bit of juice for sweetness/flavor. so good 🙂

    Reply
  10. megan says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:55 am

    oh and a big handful of spinach too.

    Reply
  11. Tanya says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:57 am

    I do a big handful of spinach +1/2 cup Almond (or soy) milk + frozen banana (adds more sweetness than fresh and ice) + 1/2 cup fresh cranberries – latest addition and it’s totally yum!

    Reply
  12. Jessica @ How SWeet It Is says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:58 am

    I ALWAYS use a frozen banana, and I only use spinach. I am afraid of how kale would taste. Eek!

    Reply
  13. Alicia says

    December 2, 2009 at 9:59 am

    yeah my kale smoothies never work out well, so I stick to spinach. When I was using kale I tried to steam it to make it softer.
    Try putting that kale in soup! I always throw it in my potato soup where it adds body and color! (I have a great recipe on my blog for potato soup with kale, leeks, and bacon. so so good!)
    My normal GM is steamed spinach, almond or hemp milk, pb, amazing grass, chia, a banana (frozen or not) and any other fruit I feel like. I love raspberries but the seeds can be annoying.

    Reply
  14. Tay says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:00 am

    I haven’t experimented much with green smoothies, but I love the spinach + mango combo. The mango makes it creamy and so sweet!

    Reply
  15. Heather says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:00 am

    I just can’t do kale in my green smoothies! Since it’s so rough, the texture is always a little gritty to me. That might be different if I had a VitaMix or some other high speed blender, but I stick with spinach. I like a frozen banana so I don’t have to use ice, almond milk (vanilla!), ground flax, a few handfuls of spinach, and my secret ingredient: COCONUT OIL! So good.

    Reply
  16. Pam says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:03 am

    Haven’t seen that granola, but it looks really good!

    Enjoy!

    Reply
  17. happyshoes says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:04 am

    LOVE Ingrid Michaelson. Bought a couple of her albums on Bitmunk and burned them to CD’s for my car. I’ve listened to them probably 60 times since this summer. 😀

    I usually do spinach, ice, milk, natural pb, vanilla protein powder (opt.), and a banana. Sometimes I’ll add flax see or wheat germ.

    Reply
  18. Food Makes Fun Fuel says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:06 am

    I’m having my second ever green drink now after a great workout! I hope it lives up to its promises

    Reply
  19. meagan says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:06 am

    1 c. unsweetened vanilla almond milk
    1/2 c. frozen mixed berries
    1 banana
    2 huge handfuls spinach
    and if i have it, a splash of apple cider.

    Reply
    • Michele says

      December 2, 2009 at 5:22 pm

      Agreed! This is my exact recipe and it’s delicious. I find Kale to be too strong. I Sometimes add ground flax (for fiber and fat) or some amazing meal original, which changes the flavor entirely, but it’s good for a protein boost. I think the powdered proteins really change the flavor, I don’t always care for them.

      Reply
  20. Naomi(onefitfoodie) says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:06 am

    looks delicious! never tried kale in a smoothie, always use spinach, but great idea thanks kath 🙂

    Reply
  21. Erin says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:07 am

    That granola looks good! And love Ingrid Michaelson — saw her in concert a couple of years ago and she was really fun and entertaining.

    Reply
  22. Anna says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:07 am

    My regular green smoothie is an apple, frozen strawberries, 2 cups of spinach, vanilla soy milk, some ground flax seeds, ginger (ground or fresh), and cinnamon. The fruit varies but that’s my favorite combo.
    It’s light, tasty, and easy to drink (instead of thick like other smoothies I make). I think that’s mostly due to the addition of the apple.
    I’ve tried kale but it’s flavor is too strong for me in a smoothie – I’ve made it more manageable by adding almond butter to those smoothies – and I usually go very light on the kale – after removing the stalk from the leaves (people mentioned stringiness so I thought I’d specify that part). A kale smoothie would typically be 3 stalks of kale (de-stalked), frozen blueberries, almond butter, flax, vanilla soy, and cinnamon. I go for the stronger fruit combo with the kale.
    During the summer I’m all about the frozen banana, but now that’s it’s colder I prefer just using a few frozen fruits and having a few non-frozen fruits to balance out the thickness and make it less thick.

    Reply
  23. Amanda @ Cakes and Ale says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:10 am

    You’re brave! I cannot do kale in a smoothie – way too intense! Spinach, yes – kale, nope!

    Reply
  24. Brittney says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:11 am

    I typically use spianch, frozen banana or berries, and orange juice and they’re very tasty. Or, if you’re in the mood for something chocolatey, I sometimes use spinach, frozen cherries, and chocolate soymilk. It’s amazing 🙂

    Reply
  25. julia says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:12 am

    I add yogurt to my smoothies. I think it helps the consistency a lot! (I like thick smoothies.)

    1 banana
    3 oz. yogurt (I use Stonyfield nonfat vanilla)
    1/2 c. frozen mango
    splash of orange juice
    1 – 2 big handfuls of spinach or kale
    1 – 2 ice cubes

    All these measurements are approximate. Sometimes I’ll also add a few frozen strawberries or a handful of frozen blueberries (but not too many or it turns brown!).

    Reply
  26. Libby says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:14 am

    And this just proves why I have such a horrible time being healthy… I honestly thing I would gag if I had to drink anything with kale OR spinach in it! For that matter, I can’t do smoothies anyway! I’m a big texture person on top of already being super picky! (can’t stand mushrooms, tomatoes – except stewed -, fish, and tofu (again, the texture there)) I’m always so inspired by all you healthy ladies, but I have the hardest time!

    Reply
    • Kath says

      December 2, 2009 at 1:15 pm

      Libby,
      I used to hate most vegetables when I was younger – and it was a texture thing. I’ve found that the best way to get over that is to have them a little at a time on things – a few veggies in pasta or on a pizza, tomato slice on sandwich – and overtime, even with picking them out, I’ve grown to like them. I think it’s all about recognizing the taste! HTH, K

      Reply
  27. Alexandra says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:16 am

    I have the best recipe!!

    1 c vanilla hemp milk
    2 handfuls of baby spinach or a few leaves of kale
    1 frozen banana
    1 tsp of cashew butter
    dash of cinnamon

    Add more hemp milk if it’s too thick. It’s delish 🙂

    Reply
  28. Jen says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:17 am

    My base smoothie is usually:

    1 C almond milk
    1/2 frozen banana
    1 kiwi
    handful of kale or spinach or both

    Lately, I’ve been adding shredded raw squash (CSA squash overload). I’ve added shredded carrot or zucchini, too, with good results. Apple is good, too.

    I’m going to have to try the cranberry idea!

    Reply
  29. Jess says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:20 am

    Like others, I only use spinach now.
    3/4 c milk
    2 c spinach
    1 banana (the riper the better)
    1/2 frozen blueberries (if you don’t have those, I think you could use a frozen banana or two ice cubes)

    Reply
  30. chipped nails and all says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:24 am

    I usually add almond butter to my green monsters, which adds such a great, but subtle flavor. Here’s the breakdown of my ingreds:
    -1 cup almond milk
    -1 frozen banana, cut in to small chunks
    -1 tablespoon flaxseed
    -3 kale leaves (def. not steamed…no time!)
    -1 tablespoon almond butter

    that’s it! I usually later the ingreds to make blending easier….almond milk on bottom, then half of kale, banana, almond butter, flax seed, rest of kale on top.

    Reply
  31. Allison K says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:26 am

    My base is usually:
    1 cup milk (I think almond milk makes it taste like dessert, but I like cow’s milk for the protein)
    1 banana-not frozen
    3-4 piecesof random frozen fruit (I buy a big bag at costco just for this reason) in lieu of ice.
    As muc h spinach as the blender can handle.

    I should try adding nut butter to it….

    Reply
  32. Stacey says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:28 am

    I can’t bring myself to drink a smoothie in this cold weather! Though I seriously crave them sometimes 😀 I need to get MY butt up and out to the gym, but it’s rainy and the perfect day to snuggle in my pj’s

    Reply
  33. Karla says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:28 am

    My Green Monsters have:
    1 banana (I’ve noted that frozen doesn’t make that much of a difference…)
    5 frozen strawberries
    3 large handfuls of spinach (or until it looks nice and green)
    1T Almond Butter
    A few ice cubes
    1/2 cup of water (or more if needed)

    Delicious! Almond butter makes all the difference in the world!

    Reply
  34. Mara @ What's For Dinner? says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:31 am

    I do 3 c. spinach, 1 c. almond milk, frozen banana and strawberry, PB2 or almond butter, 1 scoop Jay Robb

    Reply
  35. Amanda says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:32 am

    I have never used kale in my Green Monsters, simply because I usually just have spinach on hand! I usually use:

    1 cup almond milk
    1 frozen banana (works like a charm!)
    1 tbsp flax
    lots of spinach (3 cups?)
    could add PB for a little more staying power

    YUM!

    Reply
  36. Meg DeZutti says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:33 am

    I use the banana and milk, and then fill of the blender the rest of the way with fresh spinach. I add some superfood powder in the last whir. It’s quite tasty.

    Reply
  37. brandi says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:34 am

    not sure if it makes a difference, but I NEVER use frozen bananas, and with kale, I usually add some nut butter to my smoothies. i think it makes it creamier.

    Reply
  38. Jocelyn says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:34 am

    2 cups of spinach
    2 cups of almond milk or regular milk
    big BLOB of almond or peanut butter
    1 frozen banana
    some ice
    agave

    Reply
  39. Light Delight with TouTou says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:35 am

    such a healthy breakfast! I love greens In every meal!

    Reply
  40. Cara (Cara Craves...) says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:36 am

    Frozen bananas = no need for ice…much better texture, I think.

    Reply
  41. ~carolyn~ says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:37 am

    I always use frozen bananas in my smoothies. I usually buy too many bananas and when they are just perfectly ripe I will peel them, cut in half and wrap them and put in the freezer. I have a couple variations of the green smoothies…
    1. Almond milk (1 cup)
    2. 1/2 Large or 1 small frozen banana
    3. about 2 large kale leaves
    4. big handful of spinach
    5. about 1/4 cup frozen pineapple tidbits (Trader Joes)
    and on occasion I will add 1 scoop of vanilla protien powder if I had a longer run or an intense workout.
    And I always add ice…of course I am usually shivering after but I do not like runny smoothies they need to be thick and icey!

    Reply
  42. Heather @ Health, Happiness, and Hope says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:43 am

    I usually do 2 cups spinach, 3/4 cup milk (or 1 cup milk if I am adding in extra fruit), 1 large banana (NOT frozen), and 4-5 ice cubes. That ususally works perfect for me!

    LOVE the granola on top… perfect crunch!

    Reply
  43. Heather @ Health, Happiness, and Hope says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:44 am

    Oh, and I ALWAYS add 1 tbsp almond butter! 🙂

    Reply
  44. Lauren @ Eater not a runner says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:45 am

    Too bad about the smoothie! That granola does look awesome though 🙂

    Reply
  45. S says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:59 am

    Our most basic GM recipe (for 2 people) is: 2 frozen bananas, 2 cups milk, 4 cups baby spinach (loosely packed in measuring cup, or 3 generous handfuls), and a scoop of either protein powder or green superfood powder. Our favorite add-ins are frozen mango (I freeze mango cubes along with the banana) or frozen strawberries. A big spoonful of nut butter never hurts either.

    Kath you were brave to try kale…I still can’t stomach it!

    Reply
  46. Sarah (Running to Slow Things Down) says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:01 am

    So sorry you had a bad experience with the green smoothie! I hate when they turn out less then stellar!

    Okay, so my favorite blend goes to the basic: 1 frozen banana, 1 c. milk (preferrably soy, which adds sweetness,) 2 c. spinach. It tastes great everytime. Sometimes I’ll add a dollop of salted and chunky peanut butter which you can actually taste in the smoothie. 😀

    Oh, and definitely freeze the banana first! It adds so much more froth and creaminess, and takes away the need for ice which just ends up watering it down!

    Reply
  47. Erin says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:12 am

    I have always had a problem with green monsters. I think the spinach is just NOT a match with my stomach. Athough I have to steam kale/spinach so that might help. These comments will definitely be helpful. Good for you for getting the greens in!

    Reply
  48. Fallon says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:12 am

    I haven’t graduated from using fresh greens in my smoothies. I picked up a bag of frozen spinach that comes divided up. Not the block kind of spinach you find frozen. So I’ll add a frozen banana with some of the frozen spinach and I’ve been able to drink that.

    I use 8 oz. of liquid (1/2 almond milk, 1/2 water)
    1/2 frozen banana
    2-3 pieces of spinach
    1 scoop of amazing grass ( or use 1 packet)
    1 tablespoon brown rice protein
    stevia and cinnamon

    and I mix it together in the blender. It is actually really good and easily drinkable! If I want chocolate I’ll add a spoon of cocoa powder and sometimes for more thickness I’ll add some chia seeds or ground flaxseed. For a crunch I’ll use raw cocoa nibs. That is always fun to drink because it comes through the straw!

    Reply
  49. Bonnie @ Salad Craze says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:21 am

    Oh, ok… now I’m going to bite the bullet and do a GM. I’ve been reading about them for months and I haven’t been brave enough to have them in a smoothie!

    Reply
  50. Lara (Thinspired) says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:21 am

    I haven’t been able to do kale and like it, but I do know that frozen banana makes all the difference in the world!! I use either a half or whole one, plus frozen blueberries, and never need ice.

    Just read on Twitter about the juicer…awesome!

    Reply
  51. Rebecca says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:21 am

    I use about two handfuls of baby spinach, 1 cup of milk, TBSP of flax seed (meal), banana and sometimes a scoop of PB. Works every time.

    Reply
  52. Katherine says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:26 am

    I’m curious– what type of milk do you use in your recipes? Thanks 🙂

    Reply
    • Kath says

      December 2, 2009 at 1:15 pm

      Organic Skim. Stonyfield’s this week.

      Reply
  53. Estela @ weekly bite says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:28 am

    always use frozen bananas! Never use kale…

    1/2 cup soy milk
    1 frozen banana (or other frozen fruit)
    packet of amazing grass/meal
    fill the blender to the top w/ spinach.

    Reply
  54. Joanie Simon says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:31 am

    I actually came up with a good one yesterday.
    1.5 cups frozen strawberries
    juice of 1 lime
    1 cup (or more for consistency) water
    5 big leaves of kale
    1 prune
    1 Tbs. agave syrup

    I love tart/acid flavors, so this suits me well. I’m sure throwing some milk in there would make is creamier, but this set me off on a good foot yesterday.

    Have a great day!

    Reply
  55. Kristie Lynn says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:36 am

    I don’t like the texture ice gives to my smoothies, so I always use frozen banana. If you use spinach there is usually no worry with using too much (although I’m sure using a big old package would be too much) – I’ve always had trouble with kale though. My standard base is 1 c. almond milk, 1 frozen banana, 1/2 frozen seedless, peeled cucumber, and 2 big handfuls of baby spinach. Then I add whatever I feel like (flaxseed, frozen blueberries, peanut butter, etc.)! 🙂

    Reply
  56. Christie @ Honoring Health says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:37 am

    Wow, look at all these green smoothies!

    I do:

    2/3 cup almond milk
    fill blender to top with spinach or kale

    blend the crap out of it

    add one whole banana
    one cup frozen fruit
    and other mix ins
    blend forevah

    Some days I do nut butter, protein powder, grapeseed oil (for staying power!!)

    Reply
  57. Noelle says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:45 am

    I tend to add a whole orange & frozen pinapple & frozen mango along with a frozen banana and some water then I add my greens. Texture is great and the citrus flavors definately overpower the greens so you can barely taste them!

    Reply
  58. Lisa says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:46 am

    Kath,
    Thought of you when I saw this Serious Eats post: The Oatmeal Song

    http://www.seriouseats.com/2009/12/video-the-oatmeal-song-with-mike-birbiglia-and-mates-of-state.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+seriouseatsfeaturesvideos+%28Serious+Eats%29&utm_content=Google+Reader

    Reply
    • Kath says

      December 2, 2009 at 1:15 pm

      FUN!

      Reply
  59. Anais says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:47 am

    The combination that I use is delicious (in my opinion): for one person, you add 2-3 giant handfuls of spinach, 1/2 banana (frozen or not), 3/4 cup almond milk, and about 1/2 cup of mango. I find that the mango COMPLETELY covers up the spinach taste/smell and gives it a really nice texture 🙂

    Reply
  60. Elizabeth (The Dallas Celiac) says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:49 am

    I only use frozen bananas and use half spinach/half kale if I’m going to use kale. Kale gives it a lumpier texture.

    Reply
  61. Julie says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:50 am

    I make my GM’s with spinach, I’ve never tried kale because I’ve heard not so tasty things about it.
    My gm’s contain 1/2c unsweetened almond milk, 1 frozen banana, 1 scoop protein powder, 1 tbs nut butter, a crapton or spinach, lots of ice and if I’m feeling crazy I’ll add frozen peaches or mango.

    Reply
  62. Mama Pea says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:52 am

    I don’t have the perfect recipe for you, but I think you may have overdid it with the greens. I wouldn’t use kale AND the Amazing Meal, maybe just one or the other, or maybe just not the WHOLE packet. Drinking your concoction probably made you green, and not in a good way, but I find that granola can save just about anything.

    Reply
  63. Cynthia (It All Changes) says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:53 am

    My go to green monster is a frozen banana, huge handful or two of spinach, a handful of other berries, cup of almond milk and about a 1/4 cup of greek yogurt to make it creamy and get some dairy in. So frothy and yummy.

    Reply
  64. Lily @ Lily's Health Pad says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:57 am

    This is my go-to green moster recipe for days when I am not feeling up to creating a new smoothie creation:

    I cup lofat vanilla soymilk
    2 tablespoons flax seeds (or 1 tablespoon chia seeds)
    3 kale leaves (probably about 2 to three cups kale…the leaves widely vary in size)
    1 banana (usually frozen for reasons of convenience; however, I prefer the banana fresh because sometimes frozen bananas taste a bit funky)
    10 large frozen strawberries

    Blend the soymilk, and flax/chia seeds first. After seeds are chopped, add in the kale. When it is desired consistency, progress to the banana and strawberries.

    Usually I make mine the night before, place it in my fridge and then reblend for one minute in the morning.

    Reply
  65. Megan says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:01 pm

    Hi Kath!
    Love your blog! I became hooked on green monsters after following Angela’s website for awhile and now my kids love them, too! My best ever combo is almond milk, frozen banana, frozen mangoes, frozen strawberries, two big handfuls of spinach (fresh) and one packet of stevia. Perfect, refreshing, and just sweet enough! Hope you enjoy! By the way-you have the most awesome collection of bowls! I haven’t been following your blog for too long, but everyday I want your bowls. Do you just buy bowls when you see some that you like? Do you buy in pairs? Where have you found the best selections? Have a good day!

    Reply
    • Kath says

      December 2, 2009 at 1:16 pm

      I buy them 2 at a time (although I haven’t bought any in months). 2 is great for just Matt and me to rotate through.

      K

      Reply
  66. Sheila says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:13 pm

    I would say, try putting cocoa powder in it. Chocolate can cover a multitude of sins. And it’s really good with banana. Or just have the kale for lunch. Hee! ( I don’t know how you girls face that green concoction in the a.m. anyway!)

    Reply
  67. Jewel says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:14 pm

    I find the Amazing Meal makes for a thick blobby mass that in our household we don’t seem to enjoy as much. On the other hand, the AG Superfood makes a much better tasting GM for us (either original or chocolate). As far as freezing the bananas….I only toss them in the freezer when they are getting too ripe. If I have some in the freezer I will use that…but if I don’t I do add a quarter cup or so of crushed ice. And personally I save my kale for the chips and use spinach in the GM. I don’t think I could handle the kale in there! You are brave on that one!

    Our usual:
    1 cup Vanilla Almond Milk
    1 TBS ground flax
    1/2 naner
    a few big handfuls of baby spinach (I alternate between cooked and raw sometimes ‘cuz of the different health benefits of each)
    1 scoop Amazing Grass or Amazing Grass Superfood

    I guess it is just basic and simple but it works…especially for the kidlets!

    I bought those two huge tubs of Amazing Meal from Angela’s sale last month and I have to say that once we go through those tubs I will be sticking just with the plain old Amazing Grass and the Superfoods. Those seem to make better tasting GMs for us.

    Reply
  68. KatieTX says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:30 pm

    Always spinach, frozen banana, maybe some frozen pineapple or peach, little pb. I have some kale right now though and no spinach, so I am debating trying it again. I dislike kale in them. also, I think protein powder messed with the texture too!

    Reply
  69. gina (fitnessista) says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:36 pm

    sorry the smoothie was nast. amazing meal/grass products are nasty though and blended kale is a little stinky — much better for kale chip purposes 🙂
    maybe try spinach instead??
    almond milk, frozen banana, spinach, pinch sea salt, vanilla, sweetener (agave, stevia) = golden combo 😀
    have a wonderful day!
    xoxo

    Reply
  70. ilana says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:43 pm

    haha everyone has their recipe
    mine is pretty typical
    1c frozen spinach
    1 banana (not frozen)
    half cup frozen blueberries (or other fruit, or i add blueberries+fruit)
    1tbsp ground flax
    water/juice (i like homemade green iced tea) to fill container/blend

    Reply
  71. Tania @ Moment Anew says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:47 pm

    My absolute fave GM recipe:
    http://momentanew.wordpress.com/2009/11/27/veggie-day/

    This goes down super easy, is flavourful AND I can get my hubby to drink it too! 🙂

    Reply
  72. Chelsea (Chelsea's Chew and Run Fun) says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:47 pm

    My best green monster involved the following:

    -Frozen banana (heat in microwave for 10 sec. beforehand so its not too hard to blend/puree)
    -2-3 giant handfuls of baby spinach
    -1 cup Almond Breeze Vanilla Milk
    -1 tiny glob of almond butter
    -1 scoop Brown Rice Vanilla Protein Powder (Vegan)

    No ice necessary thanks to the frozen banana. It’s creamy, thick, and amazing!

    Reply
  73. Ali @ Food, Fitness, Fashion says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:49 pm

    My perfect green monster looks like this:
    1 banana
    1 tsp. PB2
    1 tsp. Chocolate PB2
    A splash of Almond milk
    1 scoop green superfood
    ice

    perfect!!!

    Reply
  74. Ali @ Food, Fitness, Fashion says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:49 pm

    Oh and spinach (2 handfuls)

    Reply
  75. marzipan says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:57 pm

    I love green smoothies! But they can turn out seriously awful…
    I usually blend (disclaimer: I have built up a palate for major amounts of kale):
    -half a bunch of kale
    -a cup of coconut water (or enough to thin)
    -honey chobani (or other fat free/low fat greek yogurt)
    -one flax pax (or scoop of flaxseed)
    -frozen berries or banana or mango, more for a sweeter taster

    also, if you want it a little sweeter, you could add a water-soaked date or two.
    delicious!

    Reply
  76. Belinda says

    December 2, 2009 at 12:59 pm

    My friend Kele gave me this green smoothie recipe. I think it is yummy and my children who are 7 and 4 drink it and like it!
    1/2 apple, cut into chunks
    1 banana, in chunks (not frozen)
    1 cup grapes
    1 1/2 cups spinach or kale
    3/4 cup yogurt (I used plain and added a little honey.)
    juice from 1/2 a lime
    2 cups crushed iced
    Blend!!!!!!
    I used 1/2 cup frozen blueberries and a couple of frozen strawberries this morning. I had to add about 1/2 cup of water so it wasn’t so thick too. It was really tasty. If you try it, please let me know so I can tell my friend Kele. Enjoy!

    Reply
    • ataraxy says

      December 5, 2009 at 11:56 pm

      Belinda,

      That recipe is great! I just got a Vitamix yesterday and was so excited to try green smoothies. I’ve already made tortilla soup, peach ice cream, and a caramel and plain frappuccino. Today I bought kale and spinach and grapes (I have the rest of your recipe’s ingredients) and decided to use 1 cup kale and 1/2 cup spinach with Kele’s recipe. It was outstanding! I love veggies anyway, but I needed a quicker way to get them into my daily meal plan, and I was letting too many things go bad in my fridge while waiting for nights when I have time to cook a big meal. This smoothie is going to be the start of something great. 😉

      Thanks for sharing this — and please let Kele know the recipe is a big hit! My husband, who HATES kale and doesn’t like spinach much, really likes this. I can tell him to make a smoothie when he pokes his head in the kitchen asking when dinner will be ready. Better yet, I can tell him to make me a smoothie for dinner. 😀

      Oh, PS for anyone who doesn’t like kale or thinks it’s too bitter: you have to take out the center rib of the kale. Just fold the kale in half down the middle and slice out the center part, which is the most bitter part. Also, I know the Vitamix doesn’t need it, but I went ahead and chopped the spinach and kale before tossing them in the blender with the other not-chopped ingredients. My smoothie came out completely smooth, which I think is mostly because the Vitamix really does pulverize everything.

      -raxy

      Reply
      • ataraxy says

        December 6, 2009 at 12:13 am

        Oh, oops – I didn’t use the ice. I like smoothies less watered down.

        Reply
  77. MelissaNibbles says

    December 2, 2009 at 1:03 pm

    I’ve yet to make a green monster that I’ve enjoyed. I’m just not a fan. I feel so left out 🙁

    Reply
  78. Joelle (The Pancake Girl) says

    December 2, 2009 at 1:07 pm

    Oh my, you’re a champ– I don’t think I could drink kale…

    Reply
  79. Jenna says

    December 2, 2009 at 1:34 pm

    sorry the smoothie didn’t turn out as planned!
    jenna

    Reply
  80. Carolyn says

    December 2, 2009 at 1:55 pm

    Somebody else tried kale and it was a bust for them. I think it’s best to use relatively flavorless veggies. I’ve tried the usual baby spinach as well as carrots. I like to put in Greek yogurt, milk, frozen fruit, veggies, and sometimes ice, thought it’s not necessary. If I’m not doing berries I’ll put in 1/2 frozen banana and some chocolate peanut butter swirl protein powder. I don’t like putting actual PB or AB in b/c it’s too high in calories for what I need.

    Reply
  81. Farah says

    December 2, 2009 at 2:03 pm

    Hi Kath,

    maybe it’s because the kale is bitter. try spinach as your “green” next time….it’s sweeter!

    I like the following combo:

    3/4 – 1cup vanilla soymilk (or 1/2 almond, 1/2 soy)
    1/2 – 1 banana (depends how big teh abana is!)
    3 – 4 ice cubes
    handful of spinach
    2 teaspoons or 1 Tablespoon of RAW almond butter (Trader Joes or Marantha) (Has to be RAW not roasted since the raw kind is slightly sweeter than the roasted)
    1/2 packet of pomengranate mango Amazing meal poweder (thuis is optional. I’ve had it with and without and both types of smoothis tatse good!)

    Hope you like!

    Reply
  82. lynn (The Actors Diet) says

    December 2, 2009 at 2:11 pm

    i find that baby spinach is the only fresh greens i can use in my smoothie. plus lots of frozen berries!

    Reply
  83. Julie says

    December 2, 2009 at 3:33 pm

    I enjoy kale and spinach in my smoothies and here’s a winning combo I made recently.
    http://followingjulie.com/page/2

    Reply
  84. LC @ Let Them Eat Lentils says

    December 2, 2009 at 3:41 pm

    My fav combination! It works perfectly every time:

    http://letthemeatlentils.wordpress.com/2009/11/03/rejuvenating-breakfast-smoothie/

    Reply
  85. Chelsea Crisp says

    December 2, 2009 at 4:48 pm

    Have a look at the food blog greenandcrunchy she cooks all vegan/mostly raw and makes alot of green smoothies!!!!

    Reply
  86. DW says

    December 2, 2009 at 6:32 pm

    4 oz. spinach
    4-5 Frozen Pinapple chunks
    1/2 Frozen Banana
    1/2 C. water
    Splash of lemon juice

    Reply
  87. Lauren says

    December 2, 2009 at 7:07 pm

    Hey Kath,

    I see you alreday have tons of great ideas from other people, but I wanted to let you know that I find Kale in a GM to be absolutely disgusting too! I really really think it’s the texture thing, but I would suggest sticking to baby spinach. I also always use a frozen banana as I think it gives a thicker and creamier texture (think of how the banana fro-yo turns out and how great that would be in a smoothie!) And one last thing, Almond or Soy milk tastes a lot better in these than cow’s milk. It gives a nutty taste and balances all of the falvors quite nicely.
    Hope that helps, but truly, the GM’s are all about trial and error. Just keep playing with them until you find the perfect combo!

    Good luck hun. 😉

    Reply
  88. Danielle says

    December 2, 2009 at 7:32 pm

    I’m sure that you have more green monster recipes that you can handle but I just thought I’d throw mine in there too 🙂

    2 handfuls of spinach
    1 c. oat milk (any kind of milk would work, really)
    1 banana (frozen or fresh)
    1 c. frozen blueberries
    –I used to use strawberries until I developed a weird allergy to them about a month ago. I really think they “make” the green monster, along with the banana. You’ve gotta have the banana!

    Reply
  89. Kathleen Ichord says

    December 2, 2009 at 10:51 pm

    I am in agreement, spinach works with just about any fruit. I call mine a spinach smoothie. I have mine about 5 nights a week.
    1 scoop protein powder
    1 cup unsw. almond milk
    1 cup light soy milk
    6 cups spinach
    1 cup any type fruit
    sprinkle of cinnamon

    Reply
  90. Katy @ These Beautiful Feet says

    December 2, 2009 at 11:09 pm

    I actually was thinking of adding kale to my smoothie tomorrow. Do you think kale adds any flavor to the smoothie? I feel like it would add a little something more then spinach.

    Reply
  91. [email protected] says

    December 3, 2009 at 12:06 am

    I have NEVER used frozen banana – what are the benefits/difference in taste with that?

    I always use spinach, vanilla soymilk, ice – eyeball all the amounts – as well as banana, one T peanut butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Delish!

    Kath – you might like some of Sara Bareilles’ songs from her album, “Little Voice” especially “City” and “Gravity” great piano and mellow tunes 🙂

    Reply
  92. Angela (Oh She Glows) says

    December 3, 2009 at 12:26 am

    I don’t steam it but microwave it for a few mins in water…it’s b/c I don’t eat dairy/meat so I need all the calcium/iron I can get!

    A lot of people can’t get past the texture of kale. It’s not great but I just got used to it. I’d love a Vitamix though.

    Reply
  93. Laura says

    December 3, 2009 at 4:34 am

    I like using Sambazon frozen smoothie packets. Eliminates the need for ice and works great on the texture. I just use the spinach, milk, smoothie packet, and a banana, and it works great.

    http://www.sambazon.com/shop2/p-37-pure-acai.aspx

    Reply
  94. elliot says

    December 3, 2009 at 11:30 am

    I see you already have a ton of ideas, but I didn’t see anyone mention PEARS, so I thought I would. I had a few pears that were very soft, and I just tossed about a half a pear in with about 1/4 banana, about 1/2 cup any milk, 2 handfuls spinach, and whatever else (sometimes flax meal, sometimes oatmeal, sometimes nut butter, sometimes a bit of lemon or orange juice or a pinch of fresh ginger) until it’s a good flavor and texture. I’ve never used Kale because I like a really smooth texture, and I use my bananas, frozen, fresh, or fridge. Sometimes, ice if it needs to cool down. The pears make it really sweet and I love the smooth creamy texture they create.

    One time I made one with spinach and frozen blueberries… not a good idea in my opinion. I could not get past the awful brown sludge color. But blueberries or frozen cherries without spinach is fantastic! And I’ve fallen in love with your SIAB idea with granola.

    Reply
  95. Sarah says

    December 3, 2009 at 12:31 pm

    I haven’t read the other comments but for me, I cannot make green monsters with kale, it’s just too bitter 🙁

    My favorite combination is 1 cup soy milk, 1 sliced frozen banana, 3-4 cups of fresh spinach, 1 tbsp wheat germ and 1 tbsp peanut butter.

    Reply
  96. LadyLara says

    December 3, 2009 at 2:47 pm

    My usual combo:

    4-5 cups spinach
    1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
    small handful almonds
    1 scoop protein powder
    few ice cubes

    If I’m not using protein powder I’ll use 1/2 frozen banana and no ice cubes. I’ve kind of gone away from using kale since they don’t always come out great. Maybe I should try them again.

    Reply
  97. Heather says

    December 3, 2009 at 4:10 pm

    I prefer green smoothies with lemon and without milk. The tartness of the lemon balances out the bitterness of any greens I might use. I use about 1 cup of fruit, e.g., berries, pear, mango, or banana; 1 lemon; a few drops of stevia; and 2-3 cups of whatever greens need to be used up, e.g. beet tops, parsley, cilantro, kale, spinach, chard….

    Reply
  98. KRISTEN'S RAW says

    December 3, 2009 at 6:18 pm

    Yay for green smoothies. And, I’m a fan of Amazing Grass – great goodness for the green smoothie. 🙂
    I always make mine vegan… today was water, organic pineapple, and organic sunflower sprouts. YUM! I think I’ll go make another!

    Cheers,
    Kristen

    Reply
  99. Rachel says

    December 5, 2009 at 3:44 am

    This is my favorite way to drink kale:
    – 1/2 cup pineapple juice
    – 1/2 cup milk of your choice (I use almond milk)
    – 1 banana (if not frozen, may want to add some ice as well)
    – handful of kale leaves

    That’s it, just blend it up. The pineapple juice is key, really does a good job masking the strong taste of raw kale.

    Reply

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    hi! Im Kath.

    I'm a Registered Dietitian, healthy eater, and mom of two from Charlottesville, Virginia. Here you’ll find a healthy mix of real-life meals made from whole ingredients balanced with the pleasures of life, including buttercream frosting and good wine. Plus a sprinkle of nutrition, home life, beauty, parenting, and travel.
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