Kiwi Smoothies

Kiwis are a delightful and underused fruit, but this kiwi smoothie recipe is going to change that. It’s a great way to get some nutrients into the kids, and a treat that you will enjoy as well.

Best of all, a smoothie is a snack you can whip up in just a few minutes, so if you’ve got hungry tummies at the table, this is a great way to satisfy them. Also, you can sneak some nuts and even spinach into this kiwi banana smoothie. More on that later!

Kiwi Smoothie Ingredients

• Kiwifruit: Plan to use three kiwis, peeled and cut into chunks. As portioned out here, you’ll be making four smoothies.
• Bananas: You want the bananas to be ripe but not turning brown, and they will need to be chunked and frozen ahead of time.
• Blueberries: Use a cup of frozen blueberries. Frozen fruit is definitely handy to have in the freezer at all times.
• Plain yogurt: We recommend a fat-free plain yogurt for this recipe. No need for extra fat when you can avoid it.
• Honey: The 3 tablespoons of honey add lots of sweetness and a pleasant consistency.
• Almond extract (optional): The almond extract is optional but highly recommended; it adds sweetness and nuance to the smoothies.
• Crushed ice: For the ice, it really is best if it’s crushed and not cubed. If cubed, you risk ending up with chunks of solid ice in the finished smoothies.

Directions

Step 1: Blend the ingredients

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In a blender, combine the fruit, yogurt, honey and extract (if desired), then cover and process until everything has combined.

Step 2: Add the ice

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Add the ice, then cover and process again until the smoothie is blended, stirring if necessary. Pour the blend into chilled glasses and serve immediately.

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Kiwi Smoothie Variations

• Sneak in some veggies: A small handful of spinach will disappear into the smoothie, adding nutrients with the kids none the wiser. Don’t overdo it though or it will turn green!
• Toss in some nuts: A wide variety of nuts will work in this smoothie, adding very little flavor but some welcome protein. You can try almonds, walnuts, cashews and more.
• Use vanilla extract: If you don’t have or don’t like almond extract, use vanilla extract instead. It will add sweetness and rich flavoring.

How to Store Kiwi Smoothies

Perhaps the one bad thing about smoothies is that they really have to be enjoyed fresh. If these smoothies sit for more than 10 or 15 minutes, they will start to warm and lose their pleasant consistency, and they don’t do well in the fridge, even for an hour.

Can you freeze these smoothies?

You can freeze these smoothies by pouring them into popsicle molds and enjoying them as a frozen treat a few hours or even weeks later.

Kiwi Smoothie Tips

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What else can I add to these kiwi smoothies?

A lot, really. You can add other fruits like strawberries or raspberries, some protein-rich nondairy milk, and things like chia seeds and more. Just do so in moderation.

Can I make smoothies in a food processor?

In a large one, yes, but you will likely have to work in batches and be patient scraping the ingredients back down toward the blades. A blender works much better.

How do I peel a kiwi?

Don’t! Save yourself some time with this trick: Slice the kiwis in half, then scoop out the fruit with a spoon.