How to Use Frozen Vegetables in Smoothies

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Many of us have trouble getting in our daily servings of fruits and vegetables, and especially veggies. A smoothie can be a wonderful way to sneak in veggies you might not normally eat.

In this easy guide, we will show you how to make delicious and healthy smoothies using frozen vegetables and answer all of your questions about using frozen vegetables in smoothies.

assortment of frozen vegetables on ice with a black background

Can You Use Frozen Vegetables in Smoothies?

Yes! Using frozen vegetables in smoothies is perfectly safe and can even be more nutritious than fresh from the grocery store. Frozen vegetables are usually frozen less than an hour after they are harvested, so you know you’re getting a healthier product.

Frozen fruit and veggie options really help to thicken a smoothie recipe.  Vegetable smoothies are often healthier than simple fruit smoothies and just because they have frozen veg in them doesn’t mean they taste bad.  Not at all!  Many veggies hide very well in smoothies.


Is it Safe to Use Frozen Vegetables in Smoothies?

Yes, it is safe to use frozen vegetables in smoothies. In fact, using frozen vegetables can actually be beneficial because they are typically frozen at their peak ripeness, which can help to preserve their nutritional content.

Additionally, using frozen vegetables can make it easier to create a thick and creamy smoothie texture. Just be sure to thaw the vegetables slightly before adding them to your smoothie to ensure that they blend properly.


Benefits of Using Frozen Vegetables in Smoothies

The biggest benefit for me of using frozen vegetables over fresh is that they don’t go bad before I can use them.

I also think that frozen vegetables tend to be more nutrient dense than their fresh counterparts. Plus, if you are using organic veggies, you may find that there is a price advantage when buying them pre-frozen.

Frozen vegetables will give your smoothie a thicker, creamier consistency than using fresh. This is also great for smoothie bowls!


Best Frozen Veggies for Smoothies

Any type of frozen produce can be used in smoothies. Some of the best vegetables to add to smoothies include:

Spinach

Background from frozen diced spinach with selective focus

Spinach is a great choice when using frozen vegetables in smoothies. It is packed with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, C and K, as well as iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Spinach also has high amounts of dietary fiber and is low in calories. In addition to its nutritional benefits, spinach is also known for its neutral flavor, making it a great addition to green smoothies.

It’s also easy to freeze your own spinach – see our guide to freezing spinach for smoothies here.


Kale

frozen kale in freezer bag on green background

Kale is another great leafy green when using frozen vegetables in smoothies as it is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Kale also has anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce inflammation in the body. It’s slightly bitter taste makes it a great addition to any smoothie.


Broccoli

frozen broccoli in bowl on wooden background

Broccoli is an excellent vegetable to add to smoothies and is especially great when it is frozen. It contains a large amount of Vitamin C, which can help fight off colds and other illnesses. Broccoli also has high amounts of fiber, which helps keep you fuller for longer periods of time. Plus, it has a mild flavor which makes it perfect for adding to smoothies.


Cauliflower

Frozen cauliflower florets in bowl on wooden table

Cauliflower is another great frozen vegetable to add to smoothies. It’s packed with nutrients such as Vitamin C, folate and potassium. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Plus, frozen cauliflower has a mild flavor which makes it perfect for adding to smoothies without overpowering other flavors. I like to buy frozen riced cauliflower since it’s small and blends easily.


Carrots

frozen diced carrots on wooden cutting board

Carrots are great for adding to smoothies because they are packed with vitamins and minerals. Carrots contain Vitamin A, which helps keep your eyes healthy, as well as Vitamin C, potassium and fiber. They also have a mild flavor that won’t overpower other flavors in the smoothie.


Peas

bowl of frozen green peas on wooden table

Peas are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent addition to smoothies. They’re a great source of Vitamin A, C, K and folate as well as dietary fiber. Peas also have a mild flavor that won’t overpower other flavors in the smoothie. 


Sweet Potato

Sweet potato is an excellent source of Vitamin A, C and B6. They also have anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Sweet potatoes have a mild sweetness that adds great flavor to smoothies and also helps mask the taste of any other veggies you may be adding.

Of course this is not a list of every vegetable that is good for vegetable smoothies. You can use any type of frozen leafy greens, make an avocado smoothie with frozen avocado (yes, I know it’s technically a fruit!), or any other fozen veggies that you like!


How to Use Frozen Vegetables in Smoothies

Using frozen vegetables in smoothies is easy and straightforward. Start by adding the frozen veggies to your blender with the other ingredients, like fruit, yogurt or milk, and protein powder.

Next, blend everything until you reach a smooth consistency, about 30-60 seconds. If it’s too thick for your liking, add more liquid (like almond milk or water) to thin it out.

Finally, pour into a glass and enjoy your delicious, veggie-filled smoothie!


Tips for Using Frozen Vegetables in Smoothies

  • Always use frozen vegetables that are organic and non-GMO, if possible.
  • If you don’t have a powerful blender, cut the veggies up into smaller pieces before blending if you have large chunks (like broccoli or whole cauliflower).
  • Add some healthy fats like flaxseed, chia seed, or avocado to make your smoothie more filling and nutritious.  You can also use a nut butter such as almond butter.
  • Experiment with different flavors and texture combinations to find a combination you love!

Frozen Vegetable Smoothie Recipes

Now that you know how to use frozen vegetables in smoothies, try out some of these delicious recipes!  Both of these have at least one frozen veggie smoothie ingredient.

spinach and kale smoothie

Green Power Smoothie

Ingredients:
½ cup frozen spinach
½ cup frozen kale
1 banana
¾ cup almond milk or coconut water
1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Directions:
Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy!


carrot cake smoothie made with frozen vegetables

Carrot Cake Smoothie

Ingredients:
½ cup frozen carrots
1 banana
½ cup almond milk or coconut milk
2 tablespoons rolled oats (optional)
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Directions:
Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Using frozen vegetables in your smoothies is an easy way to get more nutrition without having to worry about them going bad before you can use them. Plus, they add a thick, creamy consistency that is perfect for smoothie bowls.


Common Questions About Using Frozen Vegetables in Smoothies

Is it better to use fresh or frozen vegetables in smoothies?

Both fresh and frozen vegetables can be used in smoothies. Frozen veggies are often more nutrient dense and they won’t spoil as quickly. If you can get fresh vegetables soon after harvest use them, otherwise frozen is a great choice and it gives your smoothie a thicker consistency.

Is it safe to use frozen spinach in smoothies?

Yes, it is perfectly safe to use frozen spinach in smoothies. Frozen vegetables are usually frozen less than an hour after they are harvested which helps preserve the nutrients and prevents spoilage. Just make sure that you only buy organic, non-GMO frozen vegetables if you can.

Is it safe to use frozen broccoli in smoothies?

Yes, it is safe to use frozen broccoli in smoothies. Frozen vegetables are usually frozen less than an hour after they are harvested which helps preserve the nutrients and prevents spoilage. Just make sure that you only buy organic, non-GMO frozen vegetables if you can.

Is it okay to use frozen kale in smoothies?

Yes, it is okay to use frozen kale in smoothies. Frozen vegetables are usually frozen less than an hour after they are harvested which helps preserve the nutrients and prevents spoilage. Just make sure that you only buy organic, non-GMO frozen vegetables if you can.

Does using frozen vegetables change the taste of a smoothie?

Using frozen vegetables in a smoothie can change the taste and texture, but the difference is usually subtle. Frozen ingredients may make your smoothie thicker and creamier, so you might need to add more liquid or adjust other ingredients accordingly.

Easy Way to Use Frozen Veggies in Smoothies: Freezer Packs!

Final Thoughts on How to Use Frozen Vegetables in Smoothies

Using frozen vegetables in smoothies is an easy way to add extra nutrition to your daily routine. Not only are they more nutritious than fresh veggies, but they also give your smoothie a creamy and delicious texture. Use this easy guide to make the perfect veggie-packed smoothie every time!

Plus, when you use frozen vegetables in smoothies, you don’t have to worry about them going bad before you can use them. So, stock up on your favorite frozen veggies and get blending!

Try out some of the recipes above or experiment with different flavors and combinations to find one you love! With frozen veggies, your possibilities are endless!

By following these simple tips, you can confidently make nutrient-packed frozen veggie smoothies anytime!

Happy blending!
Amanda

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