Mango Spinach Smoothie

The Mango Spinach Smoothie is a delicious and incredibly healthy beverage that perfectly balances fruit sweetness with vegetable nutrients. The tropical flavor of ripe mango shines through, making the addition of fresh spinach virtually undetectable to the palate. A frozen banana adds natural sweetness and a luxuriously creamy texture. This smoothie is an excellent way to get a serving of greens without compromising on taste, making it a favorite for breakfast or a post-workout refreshment.
Mango Spinach Smoothie

Preparation

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

This drink is classified as a smoothie, a blended beverage made from fruits and vegetables. It falls into the healthy category due to its nutrient-dense ingredients. It is a popular choice for a nutritious, non-alcoholic drink.

Serving

This is a substantial, cold, non-alcoholic drink best served in a large pint glass or tumbler. No special glass treatment is needed, just pour and enjoy.
Serving size
Approx. 450 ml / 15 oz
Alcohol content
0% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Pint Glass or Tumbler
Glass treatment
None

Backstory

The Mango Spinach Smoothie doesn't have a single inventor but evolved from the green smoothie trend that gained widespread popularity in the early 2000s. As people sought easy and tasty ways to increase their intake of leafy greens, they discovered that sweet fruits like mango and banana could completely disguise the sometimes-bitter taste of spinach. This specific combination became a classic due to its simple ingredients, delightful taste, and vibrant color.
Origin
This smoothie is a modern creation, originating from the health and wellness movement in Western countries, particularly the United States, in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Its popularity grew with the increased availability of high-speed blenders, which make it easy to achieve a perfectly smooth consistency. It's a testament to modern dietary habits focused on convenience and nutrition.

Mango Spinach Smoothie

This smoothie is commonly known as the Mango Spinach Smoothie, emphasizing its two primary ingredients. Alternative names like "Green Mango Smoothie" highlight its vibrant color and primary fruit flavor. The nickname "Mango Green Monster" is often used playfully to describe its healthy, powerhouse nature.
Original name
Mango Spinach Smoothie
Alternative names
  • Green Mango Smoothie
  • Spinach Mango Smoothie
  • Mango Green Monster

Characteristics overview

This smoothie boasts a sweet, tropical flavor dominated by mango, with a thick, creamy texture. Its aroma is fruity and its appearance is a striking vibrant green, making it a refreshing treat suitable for any season.
Flavor
Sweet, Tropical, Fruity, Fresh, Slightly Earthy
Aroma
Fresh Mango, Ripe Banana
Taste balance
Predominantly Sweet
Aftertaste
Clean, Fruity
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Vibrant Green, Opaque
Texture
Thick, Creamy, Smooth
Seasonality
Refreshing, All-Season (using frozen fruit)

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor is intensely fruity and sweet, balanced by a high level of creaminess. It is a completely non-alcoholic, still beverage with no saltiness, bitterness, or spice.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

This simple smoothie requires frozen mango and banana for creaminess, fresh spinach for nutrients, and a liquid like almond milk to blend. Optional chia seeds can be added for an extra health boost.
  • Frozen Mango Chunks1.5 cups / approx. 225 grams
  • Fresh Spinach2 large handfuls / approx. 60 grams
  • Frozen Banana1 medium
  • Unsweetened Almond Milk1 cup / 240 ml / 8 oz
    Can be substituted with water, coconut water, or any other plant-based milk.
  • Chia Seeds1 tablespoon(optional)
    Adds fiber, protein, and omega-3s.

Ice type

  • None

Mixing equipments

A high-speed blender is essential to ensure all ingredients, especially the spinach, are completely pulverized for a smooth, non-gritty texture.
  • High-speed blender

Instructions

To prepare, simply combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender, starting with the liquid, and blend until perfectly smooth. Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
1. Add the almond milk (or other liquid) to the blender first. This helps the blades move more easily.
2. Add the fresh spinach, followed by the frozen mango chunks, frozen banana, and optional chia seeds.
3. Blend on high speed for 45-60 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy with no visible spinach flecks.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.

Garnishing

Garnishing is optional, but a sprinkle of chia seeds or a fresh mango slice can add a nice visual touch.
  • A sprinkle of chia seeds or a small slice of fresh mango on the rim.

Dietary Information

This smoothie is naturally vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and free from common allergens like nuts, soy, and eggs, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
✕ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This smoothie is moderately caloric but rich in carbohydrates and natural sugars from the fruit, providing a quick source of energy. It is also packed with vitamins and fiber.
Calories
Approx. 280-350 kcal / 1172-1464 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approx. 60-70 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approx. 40-50 g (from natural fruit sugars)
Sugar level

Occasions

This smoothie is perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast, providing energy to start the day. It's also an ideal post-workout drink to replenish nutrients and aid recovery. It serves as a healthy snack anytime you need a refreshing and filling boost.
  • Breakfast
  • Post-Workout Snack
  • Healthy Snack
  • Morning Energy Boost

Pairing suggestions

This smoothie is substantial enough to be enjoyed by itself as a complete snack or light breakfast. For a more filling meal, pair it with a source of healthy fat and complex carbohydrates, such as avocado toast or a handful of nuts.
  • Enjoy on its own as a light meal or snack.
  • A side of whole-grain toast with avocado.
  • A small handful of almonds or walnuts for extra protein and healthy fats.

Mango Spinach Smoothie: The Deliciously Disguised Green Giant

The Mango Spinach Smoothie is the perfect entry-level green smoothie, offering a powerhouse of nutrients without any "green" taste. Its sweet, tropical flavor and creamy texture make it a delicious and satisfying choice for anyone looking to boost their fruit and vegetable intake. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it's a refreshing and healthy option for a quick breakfast, a recovery drink, or a midday snack.