Posted Apr 03, 2022, Updated Feb 18, 2024 I drink a smoothie every day, and have for over a decade. I’m not exaggerating either, I pack my blender (Vitamix, of course) and take it with me whenever we travel. I love starting my day with a glass full of fruit, greens and protein. It’s really easy to learn how to make a smoothie, since all of our smoothie recipes are made in less than 5 minutes! Once you learn how to make smoothies that are nutritious and delicious – even your kids will enjoy them! I love making smoothies to sneak some fruits, veggies and protein into our daily lives in a way my kids absolutely love. So, I’m going to break down how to make smoothies and I include a list of all of my favorite easy smoothie recipes.
How to make a Smoothie Tip #1: Use a High-Powered blender!
The first step in learning how to make a smoothie is to understand that not all blenders are created equal. I bought my first Vitamix because I was sick of chunky smoothies. I have not-so-fond memories of literally trying to make a smoothie in my food processor because I had one, and spending money on a fancy blender was a stretch for us financially. The chunks of spinach made me gag, and we decided to buy a reconditioned Vitamix (that is still blending strong 11 years later). I wanted a blender that would pulverize anything and everything I put into my smoothies and the Vitamix was the answer (plus I used it to make baby food)! Check out my Vitamix Buying Guide where I give my exhaustive reasons for choosing a Vitamix blender a decade ago, and my top recommendations about which model to buy!
How to Make Smoothies Tip #2: Add Liquids First
When making a smoothie, it’s important to always add the liquid ingredients into the blending container first. This ensures the other ingredients don’t get stuck under the blades. It also creates a vortex that pulls everything into the blades for a smooth blend.
Best Liquids for Smoothies
I always use some sort of non-dairy milk in my smoothies because I think it gives them the best taste and texture. However there are many different liquids that could be used:
Almond Milk (my personal favorite) Coconut Milk Any percentage of dairy milk Rice Milk Oat Milk Cashew Milk Coconut Water Water (not recommended, but can be used)
How to Make a Smoothie Tip #3 Use Frozen Ingredients
Using frozen fruit and greens is crucial to making the thickest, creamiest smoothies. You’ll notice I typically do not use ice in my smoothie recipes, because it waters down the flavor and gives smoothies an icy texture – of which I am not a fan.
Fruits for Smoothies
Here are some suggestions for fruits to use to make the best smoothies (all frozen, of course).
bananas mango pineapple strawberries blueberries raspberries peaches cherries oranges grapefruit
Greens for Smoothies
spinach kale swiss chard romain lettuce beet greens carrot tops collard greens dandelion greens
I typically like to add the greens first, then the frozen fruit on top to help push the greens into the blades. However, you can choose which order to put them in!
How to Make A Smoothie: Tip #4 Pre-portion Add-ins.
I prefer to measure out all the add-ins I want in my smoothies and store them in small containers that are ready to go in the mornings. This way I am not trying to find the perfect combination of protein powders, seeds, etc. during the busy and often rushed hours of the mornings.
Blend & Tamp
Finally, once you have put all of the ingredients in your blender (liquids first, remember), it’s time to blend. Be sure the lid is secure. Always start blending on low speed and increase to high. I have my smoothie making down to a science and I almost always blend my smoothies for 50 seconds exactly. Make sure to keep pressing the ingredients down into the blades with the tamper (if you’re using a Vitamix), and blend until the mixture is completely smooth. If you make and love our recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along with us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Youtube – be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag #joyfoodsunshine so we can see your creations! The links in this post are affiliate links, thank you for supporting JoyFoodSunshine.
