Start your day with a nutrient-packed sipper — or blend one up as a snack — thanks to these deliciously healthy smoothie recipes. While heaps of fresh fruit or a spinach-loaded salad might not make the most appealing breakfast recipe, you can blend them up for something far tastier with all the same vitamins and minerals.
But which combinations offer the best flavor and biggest nutrition punch? That's where this list comes in. We rounded up smoothies that have a good balance of protein, fat and carbs to feel satisfying even after the last sip. We also looked for smoothies with vegetables or other healthy add-ins like seeds, yogurt, fresh herbs or nut butter. Prepare to start blending some next-level smoothies.
What are the healthiest things to put in a smoothie?
First, think nutrient- and vitamin-rich produce. Smoothies are a great way to make use of leftover fresh fruit or to sneak in some extra superfoods that you wouldn't normally eat on their own (like frozen papaya or dragonfruit). Think beyond the classic add-ins and consider dark greens like kale, a squeeze of citrus or spices like ginger and turmeric (try them both freshly grated!). Herbs like fresh basil and mint make a tasty addition, and — if your blender is strong enough — hearty veggies like carrots and beets. Then add some protein, like plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, for an energy boost that will keep you going until lunch. For a more filling smoothie, consider including healthy fats like nut butter or avocado. Milk (or a milk alternative) is a flavorful base, and you can add a probiotic burst with a healthy pour of kefir.
What is the best way to build a healthy smoothie?
Start with one of the top-tested blenders from the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab: They whip up the smoothest, creamiest drinks! Then learn how to make a smoothie (there's a certain order you should add ingredients to the blender) and get ready to mix up a tasty breakfast or snack that's good for you, too. To make smoothies ahead of time, stash your non-liquid ingredients (such as fruits, vegetables, powders and seeds) in the freezer in freezer-safe bags or food storage containers. In the morning, just add your liquid to the blender, followed by your other ingredients, and blend. Breakfast in 5 minutes? Easy!
Is it healthy to have a smoothie every day for breakfast?
That depends on what's in it. "As long as your smoothie contains some protein and isn’t loaded with sugar, it can be a convenient and healthy breakfast option that allows you to pack in a variety of nutrient-dense foods," says Nutrition Lab Director Stefani Sassos. Cut back on the sugar content by incorporating a mix of fruit and veggies (instead of purely fruit) and avoid added sugar like honey or maple syrup if possible. If you're dying to try out a smoothie recipe that doesn't have protein, consider one of the protein boosts above, or even a spoonful of a good-quality regular or vegan protein powder. Reach for an unflavored powder if you don't want to affect the flavor of your smoothie.
You don't have to have a smoothie for breakfast every day, of course. But as long as you're keeping an eye on your total sugar content for the day (even if you're not adding sugar to your smoothie, the sugary fruit and dairy both add to your daily sugar intake), and being reasonable about the serving size of your smoothies, there's no reason not to say "cheers!" with a delicious smoothie every day.
1
Make-Ahead Smoothies
Just pull out these pre-made (by you) mixes from the freezer, add liquid and blend.
Get the Make-Ahead Smoothie recipes.
2
Coconut Raspberry Smoothie
This creamy smoothie is made in an immersion blender for faster prep and easy cleanup!
Get the Coconut Raspberry Smoothie recipe.
3
Pineapple-Cucumber Smoothie
Cucumber makes this sipper super hydrating.
Get the Pineapple-Cucumber Smoothie recipe.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
4
Summer Smoothies
Choose between raspberry, mango, strawberry or green smoothie options so you'll never get bored. Perfect for sipping all summer long.
Get the Summer Smoothies recipes.
RELATED: 28 Refreshing Summer Drinks That Totally Beat the Heat
5
Tropical Smoothie Bowl
Why put your smoothie in a bowl? One word: Toppings.
Get the Tropical Smoothie Bowl recipe.
6
Super-Simple Smoothies
Our go-to smoothie formula? Purée fresh fruit with yogurt and milk! Or, make multiple batches and layer two flavors in one glass for an Insta-worthy effect.
Get the Super-Simple Smoothies recipe.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
7
Peach-Mango Smoothie
Sweet peaches and tropical mango offer dessert-like deliciousness — plus a ton of vitamins!
Get the Peach-Mango Smoothie recipe.
RELATED: 40+ Healthy Dessert Recipes That Everyone Can Enjoy
8
Spinach Smoothie
Yes, this sipper is loaded with leafy greens, but frozen mango and pineapple keep it sweet.
Get the Spinach Smoothie recipe.
RELATED: 26 Spinach Recipes That Put the Leafy Green Front and Center
9
Jump-Start Smoothie
It's all in the name: This fresh fruit and ginger smoothie will help you put your best foot forward.
Get the Jump-Start Smoothie recipe.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
10
Blueberry-Banana-Nut Smoothie
A little nut butter can give you the protein boost your morning needs.
Get the Blueberry-Banana-Nut Smoothie recipe.
11
Spiced Blueberry Smoothie Bowl
Add tons of volume (without extra sugar) with frozen cauliflower. It offers a creamy texture and very little taste. Genius!
Get the Spiced Blueberry Smoothie Bowl recipe from Women's Health.
12
Dragon Fruit, Hibiscus, Banana, and Coconut Smoothie
Healthy food can be 'gram-worthy too: This sweet and tropical sipper gets its shocking hue from frozen red dragon fruit, which is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants.
Get the Dragon Fruit, Hibiscus, Banana and Coconut Smoothie recipe from Prevention.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
13
Chocolate-Berry Protein Smoothie
Follow this formula for a perfect smoothie: 1 cup frozen fruit, 1 scoop protein powder, 1 tablespoon nuts, seeds or nut butter and 3/4 cup water. Bonus points for a handful of baby spinach!
Get the Chocolate-Berry Protein Smoothie recipe from Women's Health.
14
Coconut Matcha Shake
Get a burst of nutrients in this snack-size sipper made with avocado, matcha and a scoop of collagen.
Get the Coconut Matcha Shake recipe from Prevention.
RELATED: 10 Best Matcha Powders of 2023, According to Registered Dietitians
15
Tropical Chia Smoothie
Fiber-packed chia seeds plump overnight and absorb excess liquid, making this into a do-ahead, tropical treat.
Get the Tropical Chia Smoothie recipe from Prevention.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
16
Avocado-Spinach Green Smoothie
This supercharged smoothie is packed with flavor, thanks to lemon zest and juice, ginger, cilantro and green grapes. It's a must-try!
Get the Avocado-Spinach Green Smoothie recipe from Women's Health.
17
Blueberry Smoothie Bowl
Protein powder and a scoop of nut butter — plus any toppings you like — give this bowl some staying power.
Get the Blueberry Smoothie Bowl recipe from Prevention.
18
Green Pineapple Coconut Smoothie
Coconut milk adds slightly sweet, tropical taste to this pineapple-spinach blend.
Get the Green Pineapple Coconut Smoothie recipe from Prevention.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
19
Peach Smoothie Bowls
The best part about smoothie bowls? The toppings. Load up this one with Cara Cara oranges, pepitas and toasted coconut chips.
Get the Peach Smoothie Bowls recipe from Woman's Day.
20
'Green Machine' Smoothie
Sneak frozen peas into your smoothie for extra vitamins and nutrients. They're super creamy, too!
Get the 'Green Machine' Smoothie recipe from Women's Health.