I don’t like to label my kids with names like “picky,” but the truth is, the 10-year-old kind of is. The fact that he requests this smoothie (“Mom! Can you make the kale and ginger smoothie please?!”) is a serious seal of approval. There isn’t a time I don’t love this smoothie. Morning, yes. Post work-out, yes. Feeling sluggish, yes. Having friends over, yes. Putting it in the toddler’s cup when she’s giving her green beans the evil eye, yes.

Green smoothies are nothing new these days, but their popularity is deserved. Far easier than throwing together a salad, this drink is one of my favorite ways to make sure everyone in our family is getting fruits and veggies in.

I also featured this recipe at something I’ve loving right now: Kitchen Beet Pilates. One of my dear friends is opening up her home each week for me to teach a class, provide everyone with a healthy snack and give them a recipe card and demo. I knew it would be fun, but since I became certified in Pilates a couple of years ago, this has been one of my all-time favorite teaching experiences. They all loved this smoothie, too!

kale-ginger smoothie
1 c. kale
1 c. spinach
1 orange, peeled
1 1/2 c. frozen mango
1/2 lime, squeezed
2 tsp. fresh ginger, grated
1 c. cold water
agave syrup, optional
ice cubes, optional

Layer kale, spinach, orange, ginger, lime juice, frozen mango and water in blender. Blend on high until fully mixed. Add a drizzle of agave syrup if you’d like it a little sweeter, and ice cubes if you’d like it colder. Blend again on high. Drink happy!