This green smoothie is one I reach for when I want something fresh, light, and energizing without feeling like I’m forcing myself into a “healthy” moment. It’s inspired by Reese Witherspoon’s well-known green smoothie, which feels more realistic than most — fruit-forward, balanced, and actually enjoyable to drink. I usually make this in the morning when I want something quick that still feels like it’s doing me some good.
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I started making this smoothie after seeing how simple the ingredient list was. No powders, no complicated add-ins, just fruit, greens, and a little liquid. What surprised me most was how approachable it tasted. The greens are there, but they don’t dominate, which is exactly why this version stuck.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Light: Clean flavors without heaviness
- Naturally Sweet: Fruit balances the greens
- Quick to Make: Ready in minutes
- No Added Sugar: Sweetness comes from fruit
- Beginner Friendly: Great if you’re new to green smoothies
- Hydrating: High water content
- Easy Morning Habit: Simple and repeatable
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Frozen Fruit: Creates a thicker, colder smoothie
- Blend Long Enough: Greens need extra time
- Add Liquid Slowly: Controls texture
- Use Ripe Fruit: Better flavor balance
- Drink Fresh: Best taste and texture
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- High-Speed Blender: Smooth texture matters
- Measuring Cups: Helps balance flavors
- Knife: For chopping fruit
- Glass or Travel Cup: Easy serving
Ingredients in This Recipe
- Spinach: Mild leafy green that blends easily
- Romaine Lettuce: Adds volume and freshness
- Apple: Crisp sweetness and fiber
- Pear: Soft texture and natural sweetness
- Banana: Creaminess and balance
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the smoothie
- Coconut Water: Light, hydrating liquid base
- Ice: Keeps everything cold and refreshing
Ingredient Substitutions
- Spinach Swap: Baby kale for more bite
- Pear Option: Mango or pineapple
- Apple Alternative: Green apple for more tartness
- Liquid Swap: Plain water or almond milk
- Citrus Option: Lime juice instead of lemon
Ingredient Spotlight
- Leafy Greens: Provide nutrients without strong flavor
- Banana: Smooths and softens the greens

Green Smoothie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Leafy Greens: Provide nutrients without strong flavor
- Banana: Smooths and softens the greens
- Instructions for Making This Recipe
- Add Liquid First: Helps the blender run smoothly
- Add Greens: Spinach and romaine go in next
- Add Fruit: Apple, pear, banana
- Add Lemon Juice and Ice: Final flavor and chill
- Blend Until Smooth: Start low, then increase speed
- Adjust Texture: Add more liquid if needed
- Serve Immediately: Best fresh
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Best Fresh: Drink immediately
- Short Storage: Up to 24 hours refrigerated
- Freeze Packs: Prep smoothie packs in advance
- Reblend Before Drinking: Restores texture
How to Serve This Dish
- As Breakfast: Light but energizing
- Post-Workout: Hydrating and refreshing
- On-the-Go: Pour into a travel cup
Creative Leftover Transformations
- Smoothie Bowl: Add granola and fruit
- Popsicles: Freeze for a refreshing treat
- Chia Pudding Base: Stir in chia seeds
- Ice Cubes: Blend again later
Additional Tips
- Add Protein: Greek yogurt or protein powder
- Boost Fiber: Chia or flax seeds
- Extra Chill: Freeze banana beforehand
Make It a Showstopper
- Bright Green Color: Blend until vibrant
- Clear Glass: Shows freshness
- Simple Garnish: Lemon slice or mint
Variations to Try
- Tropical Green Smoothie: Add pineapple
- Protein Green Smoothie: Add yogurt or protein powder
- Low-Sugar Version: Skip pear, add cucumber
- Vegan Creamy Version: Add avocado
- Berry Green Smoothie: Add frozen berries
FAQ’s
- Does it taste very green? No, fruit balances it
- Can I make it vegan? It already is
- Can I skip romaine? Yes, use more spinach
- Is this filling? Light but satisfying
- Can I add protein powder? Yes
- Does it detox? It supports hydration and nutrients
- Can kids drink this? Yes
- Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh tastes better
- Is coconut water required? No, water works
- How often can I drink this? As often as you like

Hi, I’m Olivia Chen-Williams, a professional chef, cooking instructor, and the founder of Turn Around At 50. For nearly three decades, my life has revolved around kitchens. Not the quiet, romantic kind, but the real ones. Hot, loud, demanding, and deeply alive.

