Kickstart your day and your gut health with this refreshing Matcha Smoothie, which combines the earthy flavor of matcha, the tropical sweetness of kiwi and pineapple, and the health benefits of kale and celery. It’s packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals!
What Makes This Matcha Smoothie Healthy?
Matcha is great for gut health and overall health. It’s packed with catechins, an antioxidant that helps fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. It can also increase calorie burn and support weight management.
Kiwi and pineapple are excellent sources of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin. Pineapple also contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and reduces bloating.
Kale and celery provide essential vitamins (A, C, K), minerals (calcium, potassium), and fiber, which support overall health and digestive function.
In general, smoothies are a great way to add numerous nutritional foods to your diet in a single glass. Read more about why you should add smoothies to your diet for your gut and overall health.
Matcha Smoothie Ingredients
To make your matcha smoothie, you’ll need a combination of fruits, greens, and of course matcha powder:
- fresh kiwi
- frozen pineapple chunks
- fresh kale
- fresh celery
- matcha powder
- almond milk (or other favorite milk)
- honey
- fresh lemon
Scroll to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
How to Make Matcha Smoothie
Put all ingredients in a blender or Nutribullet.
Blend until smooth.
If it’s too thin, add a couple cubes of ice and blend.
Pour your matcha smoothie in a glass and enjoy!
Matcha Smoothie Recipe Variations
The easiest way to modify this recipe is to swap out similar ingredients in these categories:
Fruit content: Replace the kiwi and pineapple with an equal amount of your favorite fruit. Just make sure that a good portion of the fruit is frozen which adds body to the smoothie.
Veggie content: Replace the kale and celery with your favorite green alternatives. Ideas include spinach, romaine, arugula, mixed greens, or cucumber.
Milk: Replace the almond milk with your favorite dairy or plant-based milk. Or, for added gut health benefits, use yogurt of kefir for their probiotic content.
For another delicious, gut-healthy matcha smoothie, try our Matcha Kefir Smoothie with Berries.
Matcha Smoothie with Kiwi, Pineapple, and Greens
Ingredients
- 1 kiwi, peeled and cut in chunks
- 2/3 frozen pineapple chunks
- 1 cup chopped kale
- 1 rib of celery, cut in chunks
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/2 tsp honey
- squeeze of lemon
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a blender or Nutribullet. Blend until smooth.
- If it's too thin, add a couple cubes of ice and blend.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy!
Nutrition
FAQs
What type of matcha should I use?
Use culinary-grade matcha for smoothies. It’s less expensive than ceremonial grade and works well in blended drinks.
How healthy is matcha really?
Matcha is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which have been linked to reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and even potentially reducing the risk of certain cancers.
Matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness and can improve focus and cognitive function.
We describe the benefits of matcha for gut health and overall well-being here.
Why is matcha good in smoothies?
Adding matcha to a smoothie boosts its nutritional value by providing a concentrated source of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
Matcha contains natural caffeine and L-theanine, which can help you stay alert and increase focus without the jitters that we often experience with coffee.
Matcha adds a bold green color and rich, earthy flavor to a smoothie. Plus, it adds a creamy texture when whisked and blended in a smoothie.
What can I use instead of honey to sweeten the smoothie?
You can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or a banana to add natural sweetness.
Can I make this matcha smoothie ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake well before drinking as ingredients may separate.
Is this smoothie suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, if you use a plant-based milk and a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.
Can I add protein powder to this smoothie?
Absolutely! Adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder can make the smoothie more filling and boost its protein content.
Is this matcha smoothie gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this smoothie are naturally gluten-free.
Can I freeze the fruits and greens ahead of time?
Yes, freezing the kiwi, pineapple, kale, and celery in advance can make your smoothie colder and thicker without needing to add ice.
How can I make the smoothie thicker?
To thicken the smoothie, add a frozen banana, more greens, or a handful of ice cubes. This will create a thicker consistency.
2 Comments
Refreshing, not sweet in a good way.
Pretty green color from the matcha and other ingredients. Kiwi and honey add perfect sweetness.