35 Healthy Smoothie Recipes That'll Keep You Fueled All Day

Start your day with a nutrient-packed sipper — or blend one up as a snack — thanks to these deliciously healthy smoothie recipes. While heaps of fresh fruit or a spinach-loaded salad might not make the most appealing breakfast recipe, you can blend them up for something far tastier with all the same vitamins and minerals.

But which combinations offer the best flavor and biggest nutrition punch? That's where this list comes in. We rounded up smoothies that have a good balance of protein, fat and carbs to feel satisfying even after the last sip. We also looked for smoothies with vegetables or other healthy add-ins like seeds, yogurt, fresh herbs or nut butter. Prepare to start blending some next-level smoothies.

What are the healthiest things to put in a smoothie?

First, think nutrient- and vitamin-rich produce. Smoothies are a great way to make use of leftover fresh fruit or to sneak in some extra superfoods that you wouldn't normally eat on their own (like frozen papaya or dragonfruit). Think beyond the classic add-ins and consider dark greens like kale, a squeeze of citrus or spices like ginger and turmeric (try them both freshly grated!). Herbs like fresh basil and mint make a tasty addition, and — if your blender is strong enough — hearty veggies like carrots and beets. Then add some protein, like plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, for an energy boost that will keep you going until lunch. For a more filling smoothie, consider including healthy fats like nut butter or avocado. Milk (or a milk alternative) is a flavorful base, and you can add a probiotic burst with a healthy pour of kefir.

What is the best way to build a healthy smoothie?

Start with one of the top-tested blenders from the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab: They whip up the smoothest, creamiest drinks! Then learn how to make a smoothie (there's a certain order you should add ingredients to the blender) and get ready to mix up a tasty breakfast or snack that's good for you, too. To make smoothies ahead of time, stash your non-liquid ingredients (such as fruits, vegetables, powders and seeds) in the freezer in freezer-safe bags or food storage containers. In the morning, just add your liquid to the blender, followed by your other ingredients, and blend. Breakfast in 5 minutes? Easy!

Is it healthy to have a smoothie every day for breakfast?

That depends on what's in it. "As long as your smoothie contains some protein and isn’t loaded with sugar, it can be a convenient and healthy breakfast option that allows you to pack in a variety of nutrient-dense foods," says Nutrition Lab Director Stefani Sassos. Cut back on the sugar content by incorporating a mix of fruit and veggies (instead of purely fruit) and avoid added sugar like honey or maple syrup if possible. If you're dying to try out a smoothie recipe that doesn't have protein, consider one of the protein boosts above, or even a spoonful of a good-quality regular or vegan protein powder. Reach for an unflavored powder if you don't want to affect the flavor of your smoothie.

You don't have to have a smoothie for breakfast every day, of course. But as long as you're keeping an eye on your total sugar content for the day (even if you're not adding sugar to your smoothie, the sugary fruit and dairy both add to your daily sugar intake), and being reasonable about the serving size of your smoothies, there's no reason not to say "cheers!" with a delicious smoothie every day.