Whether you drink smoothies as a meal replacement, treat, or way of getting in extra fruits and vegetables in your diet, we can all agree they are delicious and packed full of flavor. However, too often do we lack some greens that have a very limited shelf-life. Today’s culprit, spinach!
Spinach is a powerhouse in terms of nutrition. With its high iron content and raising of natural energy and vitality levels, it’s no secret why we all want these vital greens’ in our smoothie recipes. Next time you go shopping, grab another container of spinach and freeze!
How I do freeze spinach? Is it difficult?
Great question! And no, it is quite simple! With these easy 5 steps, you’ll be on your way to becoming a frozen spinach expert:
- Wash the spinach thoroughly with water (at least 3 times!)
- In boiling water, blanch the clean spinach for about 1-2 minutes
- Remove from the boiling water and add into an ice bath for another 1-2 minutes
- With paper towels (a dish towel will also work fine), tap dry the leaves as best you can – the goal is to remove as moisture as possible
- Place into a large zip-lock bag or pack into individual 1-cup servings if desired
And there you have it! Homemade frozen spinach packs!
How long will the frozen spinach keep?
If stored properly, your frozen spinach will last over a year! As long as you get as much air out of the plastic bag as possible, your frozen spinach will be a perfect addition to all smoothies. Now, a year and a half are a long time.
So, if you are a more casual user (not to say you’re not a smoothie aficionado!), we recommend you grind your spinach with water in a blender for a more compact and smaller quantity product. To create frozen spinach cubes, follow this simple method:
- Wash 8 cups of fresh spinach with water
- Place into a blender or food processor
- Add 1/2 cup of filtered water
- Blend
- Place the mixture evenly into an ice-cube tray
Done! Yes, it’s that simple! Frozen spinach cubes! Depending on your preference, you can either add or remove a bit of water. This method yields a thicker consistency, but, if you are a first-timer, we recommend the lighter side to try out initially. Otherwise, the thicker the mixture the better it will freeze!
Frozen Spinach Smoothie Recipe!
Of course, we couldn’t help but add a delicious recipe for you to try out with your new frozen spinach! It is simple, delicious, and packed full of flavor! With these simple ingredients, you’ll make an amazing treat! In a blender, mix:
- 1 cup of milk (coconut milk is recommended)
- 1 frozen spinach cube our about 1/2 cup of the frozen spinach
- 1 small to medium banana
- 1 cup of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, whatever you have on hand!)
And voila! A simple and fruity smoothie that will surely satisfy your cravings. Get creative with your frozen spinach, don’t be shy!
