High-Protein Green Apple Lentil Smoothie

Looking for a smoothie that’s both energizing and genuinely satisfying? This Green Apple Lentil Smoothie is a vibrant, protein-packed option that goes beyond your average green drink. It blends tart green apples, creamy lentils, spinach, and warming spices into a smooth, refreshing beverage you can enjoy for breakfast or a snack.

Unlike overly sweet smoothies that leave you hungry an hour later, this one includes ingredients that help you feel grounded and nourished without needing to overthink it. Lentils may not be a typical smoothie ingredient, but they blend beautifully here and offer plant-based protein and fiber to keep you full and steady throughout the day.

Whether you’re easing into intuitive eating or just want a creative way to add more variety to your routine, this protein-packed smoothie is a delicious place to start.

For another green smoothie idea, try my Matcha Smoothie with Mango and Spinach. Looking for something fruity? Make a Berry Coconut Water Smoothie, Berry Dragon Fruit Smoothie, or Pineapple Mango Papaya Smoothie.

And if you want to learn more about planning truly satisfying meals and snacks, I invite you to join my free intuitive eating email series. You can also book a free nutrition counseling call here.

Ingredients

To make this smoothie, you'll need a few nutritious and flavorful ingredients. Start with cooked lentils (homemade, canned, or frozen) for plant-based protein and fiber. Frozen spinach is my go-to for convenience and nutrients, though fresh greens work in a pinch (see recipe notes for substitutions). Cucumber adds a refreshing, hydrating element, while Granny Smith apples bring a sweet-tart flavor and beneficial nutrients. Since we’re not using frozen fruit, ice cubes help chill the smoothie and give it a frosty texture. Chia seeds add plant-based fats, and a splash of maple syrup can sweeten the blend to your taste. Freshly grated ginger and cinnamon lend warming, spicy flavors and an antioxidant boost. For even more antioxidants (and a little caffeine lift) add a scoop of matcha. Finally, blend everything with your choice of liquid: water, coconut water, or dairy-free milk like soy, almond, oat, or cashew all work well.

Instructions

Once you've prepped the ingredients, this smoothie is super easy to make in your blender. For the prep work, you just need to cook the lentils (unless you're using canned/frozen lentils that are already cooked) and roughly chop the fruits and vegetables so they're easier to add to the blender.

Troubleshooting

If the smoothie is too thick or the ingredients aren't blending together, try adding more liquid (water, coconut water, or dairy-free milk) and blend again. If the smoothie is too thin, add more cooked lentils and blend again.

Making Ahead and Storage

Although they're best enjoyed right away, you can store smoothies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If the ingredients begin to separate, stir or blend again before serving.

Potential Ingredient Substitutions

• If you don't have frozen spinach, substitute pureed fresh baby spinach instead. To puree the spinach leaves, add them to the blender with ¼ cup water and blend on high for 1 minute, or until smooth. 
• Instead of granny smith apples, try this recipe with another apple variety or use pears instead.
• No chia seeds? Substitute ground flaxseeds.
• Substitute agave nectar or honey for the maple syrup. You can also omit the sweetener completely.
• If you don't have fresh ginger, swap in ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger instead.

FAQ

📖 Recipe