Kale Ginger Smoothie

A splash of orange juice, a hit of fresh ginger and just the right amount of lemon turn a handful of kale into something shockingly drinkable—and genuinely good. This smoothie leans citrusy and bright, with warm spice from cinnamon, turmeric and a tiny flicker of cayenne that sneaks in at the end. The texture is smooth and sippable, not icy or slushy, thanks to a balance of crisp apple and just a few ice cubes. And the kale? It vanishes. All that’s left behind is a vibrant green hue and a whole lot of nutrients.

Blending up a kale ginger smoothie takes less time than making coffee, and it’s one of the easiest ways to knock out a serving of greens before you’ve even toasted your bagel in the morning. Fresh ginger brings an energizing kick, while the apple rounds out the edges with mellow sweetness. Even if a green smoothie isn’t usually your thing, this one could change your mind.

Kale Ginger Smoothie Ingredients

• Orange juice
• Lemon juice
• Fresh kale
• Apple
• Fresh gingerroot
• Ice cubes
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground or fresh turmeric
• Cayenne pepper

Directions

Step 1: Blend the ingredients

Place all the ingredients in a blender, then cover and process until blended.

Step 2: Serve chilled

Pour the smoothie into chilled glasses, and serve immediately.

How to Store a Kale Ginger Smoothie

Kale smoothies are best enjoyed right after blending, but you can store leftovers if needed. Pour the smoothie into an airtight food storage container and refrigerate it for up to one day. Give it a good shake or stir before serving, as natural separation may occur.

Kale Ginger Smoothie Tips

Can you use frozen kale in this kale ginger smoothie?

Yes, you can use frozen kale in the kale ginger smoothie. Swap in an equal amount of frozen kale for the fresh kale, but skip additional ice so the texture doesn’t get too watered down.

What kind of apple works best in a kale ginger smoothie?

The best type of apple for this ginger kale smoothie is a sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady or Fuji. These apples balance the bitterness of kale and the heat of ginger without making the drink overly sweet.

What can you serve with a kale ginger smoothie for breakfast?

For a satisfying breakfast, serve the ginger kale smoothie with avocado toast and a hard-boiled egg. The smoothie brings vitamins and fiber, while avocado and eggs add protein and staying power.