Dandelion and Citrus Smoothie

Name: Dandelion and Citrus Smoothie
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dandelion greens, washed and chopped; 1 orange, peeled and segmented; 1/2 lemon, juiced; 1 banana, frozen; 1 cup almond milk (or any preferred milk); 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); Ice cubes (optional, for a colder smoothie)

Highlighted under: Light Nourishing Meal Ideas

I love starting my day with a refreshing and nutritious Dandelion and Citrus Smoothie. This vibrant drink combines the tangy flavors of citrus fruits with the slightly bitter but nutrient-packed dandelion greens. It’s an exhilarating way to boost my energy and support my well-being. Plus, it's incredibly quick to prepare—ready in just a few minutes! The combination of flavors makes this smoothie not only delicious but a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:27:46.796Z

I first stumbled upon dandelion greens in my local farmer’s market, intrigued by their health benefits and their unique flavor. After experimenting with them in various dishes, I decided to try them in a smoothie. The result was a delightful balance of citrus and the earthiness of dandelions, making for a deliciously invigorating drink.

To ensure the smoothie is well-balanced, I found that blending the dandelions with sweet citrus like oranges works wonders to mask any bitterness while still providing a rich nutrient profile. Using frozen fruits also adds a nice creaminess without the need for dairy!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant and refreshing citrus flavor
Packed with nutrients from dandelion greens
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings

Harnessing the Power of Dandelion Greens

Dandelion greens are often overlooked yet are a powerhouse of nutrients. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like calcium and iron. Incorporating them into this smoothie not only enhances its nutritional profile but also adds a unique, slightly bitter flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the citrus fruits. When selecting your dandelion greens, look for vibrant leaves without any browning or wilting for the freshest taste.

It's essential to wash dandelion greens thoroughly, as they can often carry dirt or grit. After washing, chop them roughly to ensure they blend well and reach a smooth texture in the final drink. If you're new to the taste of dandelion, starting with smaller amounts may help you gradually adjust to their distinctive flavor, allowing you to enjoy all the health benefits without being overwhelmed.

Expert Tips for a Creamy Smoothie

Achieving a perfectly creamy smoothie comes down to the balance of ingredients. Using a frozen banana not only adds natural sweetness but also contributes to a thick, creamy texture. If you find your smoothie too thin, consider adding more frozen fruit or an extra banana. Conversely, if it’s too thick, blending in additional almond milk will help achieve the desired consistency. A good rule of thumb is to start with less liquid and add more as needed while blending.

When it comes to sweetness, keep in mind that the natural sugars in the orange and banana usually provide enough sweetness for most palettes. However, if you prefer a sweeter drink, I recommend opting for honey or maple syrup. Add it gradually, blending and tasting as you go, to avoid oversweetening. Remember, the flavors will evolve a bit as you blend, so don't rush to add more sweetener right away.

Ingredients

Smoothie Ingredients

1 cup dandelion greens, washed and chopped
1 orange, peeled and segmented
1/2 lemon, juiced
1 banana, frozen
1 cup almond milk (or any preferred milk)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Ice cubes (optional, for a colder smoothie)

Instructions

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine the dandelion greens, orange segments, lemon juice, frozen banana, almond milk, and honey or maple syrup if using. Add ice cubes if you desire a chilled smoothie. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Taste and Adjust

Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more honey or maple syrup. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more almond milk to reach your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Pour the smoothie into glasses and enjoy immediately. For an extra touch, garnish with an orange slice or a sprinkle of chia seeds.

Pro Tips

For a protein boost, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder or some Greek yogurt to the smoothie. Experiment with adding different fruits like kiwi or mango to mix up the flavors!

Preparation and Storage

Preparing your Dandelion and Citrus Smoothie is a breeze and takes just a few minutes. You can wash and chop the dandelion greens the night before to save time in the morning. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The oranges can also be segmented ahead of time; pre-cooked fruit has a shorter shelf life, so use them within a day to maintain flavor and nutrition.

If you have leftover smoothie, it can be stored in the refrigerator for about 24 hours. However, it’s best to consume it fresh to enjoy the vibrant flavors and nutrient benefits. If you prefer, you can freeze the smoothie in ice cube trays to create smoothie pops or use them later to blend into future smoothies for added convenience.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to get creative with your smoothie ingredients! You can experiment with swapping out almond milk for coconut milk for a tropical twist or adding a scoop of protein powder to boost the nutritional content. Kale or spinach can be used in place of dandelion greens if you're looking to mix it up while still keeping the greens in the mix.

For an extra burst of flavor and nutrition, consider adding superfoods such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, or even a tablespoon of nut butter. These additions not only enhance the texture but also contribute healthy fats and additional protein, making your smoothie even more satisfying. Top it off with some shredded coconut or fresh mint for a refreshing garnish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other greens instead of dandelion?

Yes, you can substitute dandelion greens with spinach or kale if you prefer.

→ Is this smoothie vegan-friendly?

Yes, as long as you use plant-based milk and omit honey, this smoothie is vegan.

→ How can I make this smoothie sweeter?

You can add more honey or maple syrup, or include sweeter fruits like pineapple or mango.

→ Can I prepare this smoothie in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge, but it's best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and nutrition.