Avocado Arugula Green Smoothie

Nothing like loading up the old Blendtec with green leafy goodness :)

Arugula is an underrated “super green”, in my opinion. It took me a while to warm up to its bitter and almost peppery taste, but now I consume it regularly and love making arugula green smoothies.

What’s so special about this cruciferous vegetable also known as salad or garden rocket? Here are a few of the top health benefits attributed to arugula.

Vitamins Galore

Arugula is high in vitamins A and C, which are potent antioxidants and boost the immune system. Vitamin K, which is good for the brain and helps the body absorb calcium, thus promoting bone health. And the B vitamins, especially folate, the natural source of folic acid.

Anti-Cancerous

Like all cruciferous vegetables, the phytochemicals in arugula help prevent many types of cancer.

Mineral Rich

High in the minerals magnesium, iron, and copper, all essential for good health.

Chlorophyll

Arugula is a good source of chlorophyll, which helps protect against liver and DNA damage from aflatoxins, substances found in corn and nuts.

Fiber

A good source of dietary fiber that aids in proper digestion and elimination.

Some people even consider arugula a superfood – see for yourself.

This recipe calls for 1/2 cup of arugula and 1/2 cup of spinach for a good variety of nutrients and to avoid an overly bitter tasting smoothie. Since this smoothie doesn’t call for a sweet fruit (you could use a banana instead of avocado though) make sure to use enough sweetener.

In case you’re keeping track at home, I added a green superfood powder (Boku) and a chocolate protein powder (Sun Warrior) to my version of this smoothie. Enjoy!

Avocado Arugula Green Smoothie Recipe

The Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 avocado, seed removed
• 1/2 cup arugula
• 1/2 cup spinach
• 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 tablespoon honey

The Add-ons

• 1 tablespoon flax seeds or chia seeds
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen mango chunks
• An additional 1/2 cup of arugula or spinach
• 1 serving of your preferred green superfood powder
• 1 serving of your preferred protein powder

Show Time

Place all of the ingredients into your high speed blender and blend for around 30-45 seconds or until nice and smooth.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 242
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 16g
• Vitamin C: 38% RDA
• Vitamin K: 149% RDA
• Calcium: 7% RDA
• Iron: 8% RDA

I’d love to know if you tried and enjoyed this avocado arugula green smoothie – please do tell in the comments below. Happy Blending!