Spirulina Superfood Smoothie

Something that green must be good for you :)

One of the most potent and nutrient dense foods on earth, spirulina is perhaps best consumed in a smoothie.

When I first came across spirulina and began researching why it was considered a superfood, what stood out was the fact that it’s 65-70% pure protein by dry weight. Because of that I usually refer to it as the green protein queen or green gold.

Protein content aside, what’s so special about spirulina and why should you add it into your smoothies?

Spirulina is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and carotenoids. It’s a good source of vitamins A (beta-carotene), B1, B2, B6, E, and K and zinc, copper, iron, manganese, selenium, and the anti-inflammatory essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). It’s also an abundant natural source of chlorophyll.

A few health benefits one might experience from ingesting this green gold:

• Better immune system functioning
• Improved brain health
• Improved blood quality
• Detoxification and cleansing

As impressive as the nutrients and health benefits of spirulina are, it’s the protein content that keeps me buying and adding to my smoothies. A plant based protein that’s easy for the body to assimilate and absorb, mind you. For more information on spirulina, click here to read my comprehensive article.

For those who need protein first thing in the morning or after a workout, the green protein queen is for you.

Most people don’t find the taste of spirulina very pleasing to the palate, therefore “hiding” it in a smoothie is the way to go. It pairs well with cacao, which this smoothie also calls for. As with any food or supplement you’re new to, start off with a small amount and work your way up.

Like the picture of spirulina above, this smoothie will be dark green, and be forewarned you may have green lips after drinking. Enjoy!

Spirulina Superfood Smoothie Recipe

The Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 avocado
• 1 cup spinach
• 1/2 to 1 tablespoon spirulina powder
• 1/2 tablespoon cacao powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• A dash of Celtic sea salt
• 1/2 tablespoon honey

The Add-ons

• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen berries
• 1 tablespoon flax or chia seeds
• 1/2 tablespoon maca
• 1 serving of your preferred protein or green superfood 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: 261
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 9g
• Sugar: 17g
• Vitamin A: 460% RDA
• Vitamin C: 31% RDA
• Vitamin K: 396% RDA
• Calcium: 5% RDA
• Iron: 92% RDA

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