This easy broccoli smoothie is the perfect breakfast or snack and is delicious, creamy, and healthy! It's made with simple ingredients, and no, you can't taste the broccoli.
Creamy Broccoli Smoothie
Broccoli is one of the vegetables that took years for my son to learn to like, and at 6 years old, it continues to be hit or miss.
While I continue to offer it in its whole form for exposure (and because I am a huge broccoli fan), I like to add broccoli to all kinds of recipes so he can reap the health benefits of this nutritious and versatile cruciferous vegetable.
Some of our favorites include broccoli hummus, broccoli pesto, veggie nuggets, and pizza quesadilla.
And this magic broccoli smoothie! It's the perfect breakfast or healthy snack for toddlers, kids, and adults!
You should also try these green smoothies. And if you're wondering what vegetable to try next, here are the best vegetables for smoothies.
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Ingredients
- Broccoli florets -Broccoli is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and iron (the most essential nutrient for babies). It's also a good source of dietary fiber. For this smoothie, chop into small pieces so it's easier to blend. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli.
- Baby spinach - This is optional but since the color is green anyway, I like to add some leafy greens to boost nutrition further. Here are more spinach recipes for babies.
- Frozen ripe banana - will add sweetness and creaminess. Here's how to freeze bananas so you'll always have some on hand.
- Frozen mangoes - along with banana, this tropical fruit provide a natural sweetness that can help balance out the slightly bitter flavor of the broccoli.
- Peanut butter - inspired by my son who LOVED broccoli dipped in peanut butter as a baby. Adds a nutty flavor along with a boost of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. You can also use almond butter.
- Milk - Both dairy or plant-based milk, like unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, will work. Here's how to choose the best milk for toddlers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add milk followed by 1 cup of broccoli and the rest of the ingredients.
- Blend until smooth.
Variations
- Yogurt - for additional protein, creaminess, and subtle tanginess
- Berry blast - combine broccoli with a mix of berries like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing and antioxidant-rich smoothie.
- Tropical twist- instead of mango, try adding pineapple and coconut milk. You can also add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice.
- Green goddess - along with spinach, try adding green apple, cucumber, and a hint of lemon or ginger for a refreshing bright green smoothie.
- Avocado - for a dose of healthy fats and a rich, velvety texture. You may need to add a touch of honey or maple syrup.
- Chocolate Broccoli - add unsweetened cocoa powder.
Tips for Success
- There's no need to cook broccoli before adding it to this smoothie. However, if you don't have a high powered blender, cooking prior will make it easier to blend into a smooth consistency.
- Add the milk first for a smoother blending process.
- If you prefer a thinner smoothie, add more milk until desired consistency is reached.
- The smoothie should have a sweet taste. If not sweet enough, add more fruit, honey (not for babies under 1), or maple syrup.
Equipment
Using a high-speed blender makes ALL the difference when making smoothies. You will get a perfectly silky smooth drink every.single.time!
I've had my Vitamix for 7+ years and it's worth every penny! I use it to make all my blender muffins, dips/sauces, smoothies, pancakes...it's hands down my number one workhorse.
And if you’re looking for the perfect straw drinking cup for your toddler to slurp their cold smoothies in, be sure to check out this cup that comes with a silicone cover for grip and to prevent breakage.
It can also double as a storage jar for overnight oats, chia puddings, etc.
Storage
It is best to enjoy immediately. However, if you want to make in advance or have leftovers, refrigerate and enjoy within 1 day. The smoothie may separate, which is to be expected with all smoothies. Give it good shake and slurp away!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Just make sure to cut into smaller florets to make it easier to blend. However, if you prefer a smoother consistency, you may consider steaming or blanching the broccoli briefly before adding it to the blender.
When combined with the sweet fruits and peanut butter, the broccoli taste is not detectable. However, some individuals with a more sensitive palate may be able to detect it.
Feel free to taste and add more fruits or additional sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or date syrup.
More Smoothie Recipes
Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
Broccoli Smoothie
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ cup milk of choice
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- a large handful of spinach
- 1 medium frozen banana
- ½ cup frozen mangoes
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter or almond butter (or ¼ cup Greek yogurt)
Instructions
- Add milk followed by broccoli and the rest of the ingredients.
- Blend until smooth. Best to enjoy immediately but you can refrigerate for up to 1 day.
Notes
- If you prefer a thinner smoothie, add more milk until desired consistency is reached.
- The smoothie should have a sweet taste. If not sweet enough, add more fruit, honey (not for babies under 1), or maple syrup.
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