This protein smoothie gets a boost from baby spinach, which is packed with antioxidants. See how to make the easy 5-minute recipe.

Green protein smoothies in cups with black straws.

Recipe Highlights

A healthy post-workout snack, this refreshing green protein smoothie is full of essential nutrients.
The natural green color comes from spinach. It has a mild earthy flavor that’s balanced by naturally sweet ingredients.
Vanilla protein powder adds depth of flavor and complements the greens.
This recipe takes just 5 minutes and makes a 16-ounce drink.

Ingredient Notes

Ingredients for a green protein smoothie.

Unsweetened almond milk: Since this recipe has date syrup for natural sweetness, it’s best to use unsweetened almond milk. If you want to increase the protein content of your smoothie, choose soy milk or dairy milk instead.
Date syrup: A natural sweetener that’s delicious in smoothies.
Hemp seeds: Hemp seeds add protein, along with anti-inflammatory fats and vitamins.
Vanilla protein powder: Both whey and vegan protein powders work well in this recipe. If you don’t like the flavor of vanilla, feel free to use unflavored protein powder.
Baby spinach: Baby spinach gives this smoothie its bright green color. It’s also a great source of antioxidants and vitamins. The flavor is less bitter than kale, so it works well with vanilla.
Frozen banana: This ingredient is key for a cold and thick smoothie. It provides natural sweetness too.

For full ingredients and detailed instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Variations

Extracts: For a stronger vanilla flavor, add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. You can also use vanilla extract with unflavored protein powder for a similar flavor profile.

Leafy greens: If you want a stronger green smoothie taste, add another handful of baby spinach. Another option is to add a handful of baby kale for an earthier taste.

Green powder: Add a scoop of green powder to increase the greens in this recipe. Made of dried and crushed fruits and vegetables, green powders are very high in nutrients. Depending on the brand, the green powder might add a slight fruity flavor to your drink.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Date syrup poured into a blender with milk.

Step 1: Pour milk and date syrup into the blender.

Load liquid ingredients first.

Banana, spinach, chia seeds, date syrup, and milk in a blender.

Step 2: Add vanilla protein powder, hemp seeds, spinach, and frozen banana.

Add ingredient into the blender in this order.

Step 3: Blend until smooth. Start on a low speed, then increase to high.

Step 4: Pour smoothie into a cup. Serve immediately

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Blender Tips

Cut fruits into pieces.

Protect the blades of your blender by chopping fruits before freezing them.

For this smoothie, you’ll need to freeze bananas. Be sure to slice them into coins first. If you have a powerful blender, you can cut them into slightly bigger chunks. Never put a whole frozen banana in your blender, which can damage the blades and container.

Add ingredients from lightest to heaviest.

To ensure the blades of your blender move efficiently, load the lightest ingredients first. This includes your liquid base and liquid add-ins. Next, load other add-ins like powders, nut butters, and seeds. Continue with leafy greens, fresh fruit, and frozen fruit and ice.

Rotate ingredients with a tamper.

An easy way to encourage a smooth blend is to use a tamper. While the blades are moving, insert the tool through the lid. Move it in a circle, making sure to hit all 4 sides of the blender jar. This will create a vortex and move ingredients toward the blades.

Scrape out leftover smoothie.

Instead of rinsing out leftover smoothie, remove it using a blade scraper. It’s a tool designed to reach under blades and get out every last drop.

Expert Tips

Choose bananas that have a yellow peel with brown spots. This means the bananas are ripe and ready to use.
If you want to thin the smoothie, add a splash of milk and blend for another 10 seconds.
For a thicker drink, add extra frozen banana or a few ice cubes.
You can use a pitted and chopped Medjool date in place of date syrup.
Regular spinach can be used instead of baby spinach. Be sure to slice away any hard stems.
Keep leftover smoothie in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. Drink it within 1 or 2 days for the best flavor and texture.

If you tried this Green Protein Smoothie recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and let me know how you like it in the comments below.