Since getting serious about the gym again over the last few months, (thanks, classpass!) I’ve been craving breakfast pretty soon after I wake up. And one of my favorite things to do has been to pick up a smoothie on my way into the office. Those can really add up. Recently, I started making my own version of the same smoothie that I love – Popeye Went on a Vacation to Thailand.
I call it Popeye Went on a Vacay, for short. The name is kind of silly, but the drink literally tastes like a tiny, healthy vacation! Exactly as the name suggests. After trying it at Native Co., I was hooked. It is one of the most refreshing drinks I’ve had and really fills me up! When I drink one in the morning, it holds me over until the afternoon for lunch.
I’ve seen a couple variations out there, but I think ours really replicates everything we love about the original. I only use cold pressed coconut water for our smoothies. If you haven’t had cold pressed, it is much thicker than typical coconut water, it’s a bit milky, and has a ton of flavor, somewhere between typical coconut water and coconut milk.
I love the ginger in this drink, it really kicks up the flavors and adds something unique to the drink. I have ginger paste, but you can also use fresh ginger. If I really want a pick me up, I’ll add extra ginger to the recipe for more flavor.
Ingredients
For one large serving:
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup frozen mango
- 1 cup cold pressed coconut water
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- 8 mint leaves
Throw all of your ingredients into a blender. I love my bullet blender because i can perfectly measure out either one big serving.
Looking for something a bit more substantial? I’ve also thrown chia seeds into the drink, and it tastes great! I will let the chia seeds soak in the coconut water for a few minutes before blending it all up so that the seeds have the chance to expand.
Hope you enjoy, let me know how your’s turns out!
xoxo, jackie