As most parents can attest, getting their kids to eat healthy and consume all the nutrients they need may be a challenge. For one, most kids don't like to eat their veggies, and sit for hours on the table refusing to finish those green and colorful pieces of food on their plate. And those who do like vegetables, may only like one or two kinds, at most. So, parents are faced with the challenge of finding creative ways to get their children on the veggies-are-awesome bandwagon. Here are 40 smoothies made with superfoods that your children will surely love and will provide them with all the nutrients they need.
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These delicious smoothies are perfect for kids that give their parents a hard time when it comes to eating healthy foods. One cup of licuado may include vitamins, minerals and other nutrients they would not consume otherwise. The key is to blend those vegetables, nuts and grains with tasty fruits and ingredients that are also good for them.
From a berry-cado smoothie made with berries and avocado to an oatmeal raisin cookie shake and an almond butter and jelly licuado, here are some quick, easy and delicious smoothies that are shock-full of nutrients and your kids will definitely love.
This coconut milk and banana smoothie will help improve your child's cognitive function.
Coconut milk contains medium-chain fatty acids called triglycerides, which, research suggests, help improve cognitive function. Plus, bananas are loaded with vitamin B6, manganese, vitamin C and potassium, and are simply delicious.
Get the full recipe at CookForYourLife.org.
Replace the basic morning oatmeal with this quick and healthy breakfast smoothie.
Oats are a good source of protein and fiber, and are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Oatmeal is one of the best foods to give your children for breakfast because, besides being loaded with nutrients, the soluble fiber found in it will make your children feel satisfied longer, and will also help fuel them through the morning. This oatmeal breakfast smoothie is a delicious way to include this whole-grain cereal into your child's morning routine.
Get the full recipe at Kristine's Kitchen.
Your kids can enjoy the taste of their favorite cereal in a smoothie.
Eating cereal every morning can become boring. So, make breakfast more interesting by mixing some whole grain cereal into a thick, creamy and delicious smoothie! This one is packed with protein (as it contains protein powder), which makes helps keep the brain alert and active. It also contains banana, which a superfood rich in vitamin B6, manganese, vitamin C and potassium. Just make sure you use whole grain cereal!
Get the full recipe at Running with Spoons.
Boost your children's immune system with this fresh mango and Greek yogurt smoothie.
Mangoes are one of the most delicious fruits on the planet! They are also one of the highest food sources of vitamin C, which is essential for the immune system Then we have Greek yogurt, which is packed with probiotics, a healthy bacteria that can also help boost the body's defense against diseases, toxins, bacteria, viruses, and illnesses like the cold and the flu.
Get the full recipe at Super Healthy Kids.
This peanut butter and banana smoothie is loaded with protein.
This is one of my favorite smoothies and I'm sure it will become one of your child's drink of choice. Featuring banana, peanut butter and Greek yogurt, this smoothie is loaded with protein, potassium and vitamins. This smoothie is great to give your kids to fuel the body after a whole day of playing.
Get the full recipe at GimmeSomeOven.com.
This blueberry, goji and coconut oil smoothie is called The Brain Booster.
The ingredients in this delicious smoothie help improve mental clarity, memory and overall brain function.
Get the full recipe at Healthy Smoothie Headquarters.
This kiwi and banana smoothie is packed with vitamin C.
One kiwi has more vitamin C than an orange! And banana is another superfood that is loaded with nutrients. Blend these two fruits with some Greek yogurt or almond butter, and you'll have a delicious and healthy smoothie that your kids will surely love.
Get the full recipe at Roti n Rice.
If your kids refuse to eat avocado, just blend some into this creamy chocolate smoothie.
Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, folate, fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B5 and vitamin K. They are also high in magnesium, phosphorus, iron, potassium and antioxidants, and help regulate blood flow, which makes for a healthy brain! However, some kids may refuse to eat it. This Creamy Chocolate Avocado smoothie is a great option to include this nutrient-dense fruit in their diet.
Get the full recipe at Against All Grain.
This berry-cado smoothie is creamy and delicious.
Adding avocado to your smoothies is a great way to get your kids to eat this super food that is so good for them. This smoothie also contains blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, oranges and banana, which are all packed with nutrients.
Get the full recipe at babble.com.
This acai smoothie is packed with antioxidants, which are essential for kids.
If you thought antioxidants needed only be consumed by older people in order to prevent cell damage, I have news for you! Children also need these vitamins and nutrients, which help the body attack free radicals that can destroy healthy cells. Acai berries are packed with antioxidants and many other nutrients, and may help maintain normal blood sugar levels in your kids. So, make sure you add these berries or the acai powder to your shopping list and start making some delicious smoothies!
Get the full recipe at Food with Feeling.
Let's call this the Hulk (or Shrek) smoothie!
If they get freaked out about this green smoothie, just tell them it's inspired by Shrek or Hulk… that may help. This delicious drink contains not one but four superfoods: spinach, kiwi, banana and chia seeds!
Get the full recipe at Turnip the Oven.
You don't even have to tell them that this chocolate banana smoothie contains spinach.
If your kids don't want to eat spinach, here's a solution: just blend the leafy greens with some dark chocolate cocoa powder, and they won't even notice. You can also add banana, blueberries and some milk!
Get the full recipe at Mom to Mom Nutrition.
Give your kids a protein and fiber filling breakfast with this carrot, orange, yogurt and oatmeal smoothie.
No matter how good they are for your eyesight, carrots are usually not the most attractive food for kids. This smoothie is the perfect blend to get your kids to consume this superfood.
Get the full recipe at Kitchen Gidget.
This oatmeal raisin cookie smoothie is a total treat!
Who doesn't love a good ol' oatmeal raisin cookie? Give this classis desert the smoothie treatment with this delicious licuado, courtesy of A Sweet Pea Chef.
This cinnamon, sweet potato smoothie tastes like ice cream.
Sweet potatoes are high in fiber, which is good for the stomach and intestines; vitamin A, which plays a major role in vision and eye health; and potassium, which help the heart and muscles work better. Satiate your kids' sweet tooth without the guilt of the extra sugar with this delicious smoothie made with sweet potatoes and other healthy ingredients.
Get the full recipe at ErinPalinski.com.
Allow your kids to indulge in this pumpkin pie protein smoothie that tastes like dessert.
Pumpkins have amazing health benefits. They are powerful antioxidants loaded with amino acids, vitamins and phytonutrients that help boost the immune system, clean the blood, fight infections and help the heart. This smoothie recipe is delicious and it's packed with protein and tastes like you're eating pumpkin pie for dessert without the guilt!
Get the full recipe at MamásLatinas.
This almond butter and apple smoothie is so tasty it's hard to believe it's healthy!
The great nutritional value of apples make them one of nature's best superfoods. That's why they say that an apple a day keep the doctor away. This creamy, almond butter and apple smoothie is a tasty option to have your children eat their daily apple.
Get the full recipe at Huffingtonpost.
Blend some pear and spinach for a quick and very healthy smoothie.
Spinach is full of vitamins and other nutrients, such as magnesium, iron, copper, potassium and calcium. It is also a very good source of dietary fiber, phosphorus, zinc, protein and choline. Pears are an excellent source of fiber and have vitamin C. Together they make for a really tasty smoothie.
Get the full recipe here.
If they don't want to eat peas, don't worry...
Yes, green peas are a superfood! They provide us with essential fatty acids and nutrients, including vitamins B1, C and K, magnesium, fiber and copper. They are also very low in fat and have a low glycemic index. But I know how hard it is to get] kids to eat these tiny green "things". Well, try this strawberry and peas smoothie!
Get the full recipe here.
This is a great way to get your kids on the kale-is-awesome bandwagon!
Are you having a hard time making your kids eat kale? Try blending it with banana and apple!
Get the full recipe here.
This broccoli and banana smoothie is another super easy recipe that packs a green punch!
Broccoli is loaded with fiber, antioxidants that fight cancer, and vitamin C that aid in iron absorption. It is also a great source of calcium, which helps control blood pressure and build strong bones. And, besides being a delicious and sweet fruit, bananas are full of vitamins and minerals.
Get the full recipe here.
This apple, banana and chia seeds smoothie is perfect for breakfast or for a nutritious snack.
Chia seeds are rich in fiber, antioxidants and plant-based omega-3 essential fatty acids. Chia is considered a "complete protein", which means that it contains all nine essential amino acids. Create a thick and creamy smoothie by blending 1 tbsp of these tiny seeds with apple, frozen banana chunks, low-fat plain yogurt and low-fat milk.
Get the full recipe at Joy Love Food.
This papaya smoothie is simple, delicious and very nutritious.
In the Dominican Republic, where I'm from, papaya shake is almost like a national drink. It is so delicious that one may not even realize how nutritious it is. Papaya contains significant amounts of fiber, folate, and vitamins A and C. This smoothie is really easy to make, just blend some papaya, milk (preferably almond or low-fat milk), vanilla extract, ice and voila! You may add a tiny bit of sugar to make it a bit sweeter.
Beets can become your child's best friend.
I remember how much I disliked beets growing up. No matter how much my mom tried to make me eat this vegetable, I just couldn't stand the taste of it. But now that I'm older and smarter, I love it! I mean, after all, they are high in immune-boosting vitamin C, fiber, and essential minerals. So, if your kids are anything like I was when I was little, this smoothie is for them. it contains banana, ground cinnamon, almond milk, and vanilla extract, which will help hide the taste of beets.
Get the full recipe at TurnipTheOven.com.
This kale, pear and green grapes smoothie is a delicious summer treat.
Kale is packed vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, folate and manganese. But you may find it challenging to make your kids eat it. This smoothie is a great option because it also contains pear and green grapes, which will naturally sweeten it up.
Get the full recipe at MamásLatinas.
This tropical spirulina smoothie is kids-approved!
Spirulina is considered one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. This superfood is higher in protein than red meat. It also contains all of the essential fatty acids your body needs, and it's rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. But good luck trying to make your kids eat it! This smoothie features banana and mango, which will definitely hide the taste of the nutritious blue-green algae.
Get the full recipe MamaNatural.com.
Blend some mango, carrots and Swiss chard for a refreshing smoothie.
Swiss chard is one of healthiest leafy green vegetables, but you may need to find creative ways to make your kids eat it. This smoothie is a great idea, because it contains mango (one of the sweetest fruits out there), and carrots, which are also sweet. What kid is gonna mind some Swiss chard in this?
Get the full recipe here.
Your kids will love the refreshing and sweet taste of this green morning smoothie.
Not only is it chock-full of vitamins, but the combo of the peaches and mangoes tastes like you're in paradise. What your children won't know is that is also has spinach.
Get the full recipe at MamásLatinas.
This smoothie tastes like a heavenly dessert.
This smoothie is packed with omega-3's and plenty of vitamins that are derived from the almond butter, bananas, and flax seeds, which can help improve brain function. The heavenly tasting mix is perfect for a snack.
Get the full recipe at MamásLatinas.
Here's the green and healthy version of the Orange Julius.
Remember how an Orange Julius tastes like a creamsicle? As delicious as it may be, it's full of sugar and not-so-good-for your ingredients. However, we found a way around it and surprise we found the Green Julius. It's full of veggies and a citrus flavor that you won't miss the original!
Get the full recipe at MamásLatinas.
Your children will get hooked on this dairy-free almond butter milkshake.
This thick and creamy shake tastes just like a frothy milkshake from your kids’ favorite ice cream shop; except, it is not loaded with dairy and sugar. Almond butter contains essential fatty acids that are good for the heart. The protein in almond butter provides a steady source of energy, which means your kids won't be falling asleep in school.
Get the full diet at PaleoGlutenFree.com
Mix all the berries you can think of for a antioxidant-packed smoothie your children will love.
This wild berry and Greek yogurt is packed with antioxidants.
Get the full recipe at babble.com.
Take the classic banana shake to the next level by adding some tasty coconut.
I love anything with coconut! So, this is one of my favoroite smoothies ever, and I'm sure your kids will love it too. It's made with coconut milk, banana, agave and coconut flakes, and it is simply heavenly.
Get the full recipe from House of Yumm.
Kick the peanut butter and jelly sandwich to the curb and try this almond butter and jelly smoothie.
This smoothie is a healthy and tastier take on the timeless PB&J sandwich. It is made with three superfoods —red grapes, banana and almond butter—, which means that it's loaded with nutrients.
Get the full recipe at Self.
This pineapple and Greek yogurt smoothie will transport your kids to the tropics.
This tropical drink is perfect for a quick and healthy snack. It's made with Greek yogurt, which is chock-full of protein and antibiotics.
Get the full recipe at Cake Whiz.
Two of the most delicious fruits come together in this tropical smoothie.
Besides being one of the most delicious fruits, passion fruit is a good source of nutrients, especially fiber, vitamin C and vitamin A. Mix it with mango and you have a winning combo your children will love.
Get the full recipe at bob appétit.
This is not your typical strawberry smoothie.
Take the classic strawberry shake to the next level by adding some Greek yogurt, almond milk and cocoa powder.
Get the full recipe at ThatsSoMichelle.com.
This mango, orange and chia smoothie is so yummy!
Mangoes are full of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants that help lower blood-sugar levels and improve brain health. Then we have oranges, which are packed with vitamin C. And to top it off, we add some chia seeds, which are rich in fiber, antioxidants and plant-based omega-3 essential fatty acids.
Get the full recipe at KatherineMartinelli.com.
Your kids will love you even more when you give them this healthy shake that tastes like desert.
Walnuts are powerful antioxidants and proud members of the superfoods category. Among all the nuts, Walnuts have the highest content of Omega-3 fatty acids, copper and magnesium which aid in developing healthy bones. All you need is one cup of almond milk, half a cup of vanilla Greek yogurt, half a cup of coconut flakes, one tablespoon of honey, a quarter cup of walnuts and some ice. Chop the walnuts finely, put all the ingredients in a blender and serve.
Make an apricot and banana licuado por breakfast or serve as a snack.
All you need is half a cup of almond milk, half a cup low-fat vanilla frozen yogurt, one peeled banana, half a cup of apricot (diced) and some ice. Blend all the ingredients and add some wheat germ for extra nutrition.
