4 Best Smoothie Recipes for Weight Loss

The secret to these wholesome smoothies: good-for-you ingredients that won’t weigh you down.

Can't get enough smoothie recipes? We don't blame you.

Smoothies are an easy way to get more fruits and vegetables in your diet. If you're not in the mood or can't sit down for a full meal, they can stave off hunger. And of course, they're wonderfully refreshing, especially after a hard-earned workout.

But smoothies also have a dirty secret. If you're not mindful with your ingredients, you'll end up with a highly processed beverage that'll derail your fitness or weight loss goals.

What you want: real foods with high nutritional value. Exact ingredients will vary from recipe to recipe, but here are some top options:

• Lean protein for creaminess: Greek yogurt, chickpea powder, or any of these ideas for high-protein smoothies
• Fruits and vegetables for fiber and vitamins: Spinach, kale, berries, mango, avocado, pumpkin, banana, and any of your choice
• Toppings for flavor: Cinnamon, honey, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and mint

Ready to blend? Try one or more of these quick and easy smoothie recipes for weight loss.

Smoothie Recipe #1: Blueberry Almond Spice

Serves: 1

You’ll need:

• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• ¼ cup almond flour
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon honey

What to do: Combine all ingredients in a blender, and whip until smooth.

Smoothie Recipe #2: Year-Round Pumpkin Spice

Serves: 1

You’ll need:

• ½ cup unsweetened canned pumpkin
• ¼ cup chickpea flour
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin coconut oil
• ¾ cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• Handful of ice

What to do: Combine all ingredients in a blender, and whip until smooth.

Smoothie Recipe #3: Lemon Mango Mint Avocado

Serves: 1

You’ll need:

• 1 single-serving container or ¾ cup organic nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1 cup frozen diced mango
• ¼ avocado
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 large fresh mint leaves, chopped

What to do: Combine all ingredients in a blender, and whip until smooth.

Smoothie Recipe #4: Strawberry Chocolate Ginger

Serves: 1

You’ll need:

• 1 cup chopped kale
• 1 cup frozen strawberries
• ¼ cup chickpea flour
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Cube (1-inch x 1-inch) of fresh peeled ginger root
• 2 tablespoons non-dutched cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon honey

What to do: Combine all ingredients in a blender, and whip until smooth.

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Recipes: Cynthia Sass, M.P.H., R.D. Photos: George Karabotsos.