
Berry Detox Smoothie from The Nutrition Twins’ Veggie Cure Book
This bright, refreshing berry detox smoothie makes an excellent energy-boosting breakfast or a light snack. Sweet blueberries and fresh baby spinach deliver antioxidants, fiber and micronutrients, while the yogurt and milk provide protein to help keep you satisfied. If you’re recovering from a heavy meal or feeling a bit bloated, this smoothie is a simple, hydrating choice that supports digestion and gives you a clean, revitalizing boost.
Why these ingredients work
Spinach and blueberries are two standout ingredients in this recipe. Spinach brings water, potassium and fiber, all of which support hydration and healthy digestion. It also contains compounds that support the liver’s natural detoxification pathways, helping the body process and eliminate waste. Blueberries are low in calories yet rich in fiber and polyphenols, plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Together they add nutrients and flavor without excess calories.
Variation and dietary swaps
If you prefer to skip milk and yogurt, you can substitute a high-protein alternative. One option is about 1 1/3 scoops of whey protein powder (roughly 130 calories) combined with 1 cup of ice and ½ banana for texture and sweetness. For a vegan alternative, use 5 tablespoons of hemp protein powder (or another plant-based protein such as split pea or brown rice), 1 cup of ice and ½ banana. Be aware that different protein powders will slightly change the flavor and thickness of the smoothie.
Serves: 2 (about 8 ounces per serving)
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup skim milk (vegans: replace with 5 tablespoons hemp, split pea, or brown rice protein + 1 cup ice + 1/2 banana)
- 1/2 cup flavored, fat-free yogurt (fruit flavors like berry work well)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 cup raw baby spinach, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups frozen blueberries, unsweetened
Directions
- Layer the ingredients in your blender in this order: liquid (milk or your protein + water), spinach, spices and flaxseed, then finish with the frozen blueberries on top. This order helps create a smooth blend by forming a slurry that pulls the frozen fruit down toward the blades.
- Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little extra milk or water and blend again. If it’s too thin, add a few more frozen berries or a small piece of banana for thickness.
- Taste and adjust sweetness with a little more honey if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Optional boost
For extra healthy fats and texture, add 1/4 cup walnuts. To soften their flavor and improve blendability, soak walnuts in water for about 15 minutes, drain, then add them to the blender with the other ingredients.
Nutritional information (per serving)
Approximate values, not including optional flaxseed or walnuts: calories 150, total fat 1 g, saturated fat 0 g, cholesterol 2 mg, sodium 76 mg, carbohydrates 33 g, dietary fiber 4 g, sugars 26 g, protein 6 g.
Tips for the best smoothie
- Use unsweetened frozen blueberries to control added sugars while keeping a fruit-forward flavor.
- Choose a high-powered blender if you plan to add nuts or seeds for a smoother texture.
- Adjust the thickness by varying the amount of liquid, ice or frozen fruit to match your preference.
- 1/2 cup skim milk (or vegan protein option: 5 tablespoons hemp or other plant protein + 1 cup ice + 1/2 banana)
- 1/2 cup flavored, fat-free yogurt
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 cup raw baby spinach, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups frozen blueberries, unsweetened
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth.
- Layer ingredients for best blending: liquid first, then spinach, spices, and frozen fruit on top.
- Adjust consistency with extra liquid or frozen fruit and serve immediately.