Green Monster Smoothie Pancakes

I've been drinking Green Monster smoothies for breakfast every morning since November. If you're unfamiliar with these bright green concoctions, there are a number of variations, but the classic recipe is made with just milk, a banana and spinach. (You won't taste the spinach, I promise!) While I am addicted to them, there are some days (like today) that I crave pancakes. So instead of feeling sad and deprived I decided to combine the two. I get to cave into a craving while getting some veggies in the process. Win-win.

I was worried that the green color wouldn't be as vibrant once cooked. As you can see from the photo the color really pops. This would make a wonderful addition to the breakfast table on St. Patrick's Day. Another win.




Green Monster Smoothie Pancakes
makes 8 pancakes

1 cup almond milk, unsweetened
1 very ripe banana
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1 cup flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 beaten egg
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Syrup and butter for topping

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

In a blender, add milk, banana and spinach and blend until there are no flecks of spinach seen in the mixture. Blend in the egg and butter.

Pour green mixture in with the dry ingredients and mix until combined.

Preheat a griddle on medium low. Using a 1/4 measuring cup, drop batter onto the griddle. Cook until the tops are bubbly and edges are dry. Flip and cook another minute.

Serve with lots of butter and syrup.