Do you ever find yourself with leftover spinach? Maybe you cooked a bit more than you needed for dinner, or maybe you bought a big bag of spinach with good intentions but it’s now wilting in the fridge. Whatever the reason, here’s a great way to use up that spinach: freeze it for smoothies! It’s easy to do and it’ll save you time later on. Keep reading to learn how.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can freeze spinach for smoothies. However, it will have an impact on the taste and texture of the smoothie. Additionally, it will only last for about two months in the freezer.
When freezing spinach for smoothies, it is important to blanch it first. This means that you need to boil the spinach for a minute before cooling it down and freezing it. This process will help to maintain the taste and texture of the spinach when it is thawed and blended into a smoothie.
Can You Freeze Spinach for Smoothies?
Yes, you can freeze spinach for smoothies. The impact on taste will depend on how much you freeze and how you use it. If you want to add frozen spinach to a smoothie, it’s best to thaw it first and then blend it in. If you add frozen spinach directly to the blender, it will change the texture of your smoothie. It will be thicker and have a more icy consistency. Freezing spinach also affects its nutritional value, but to a lesser extent than other vegetables. It will still contain most of its nutrients after being frozen. Frozen spinach will last for about three months in the freezer.
How To Freeze Spinach for Smoothies?
Spinach is a great leafy green to add to smoothies. It’s high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. And it’s low in calories. But what do you do if you don’t finish the spinach you bought at the grocery store? You can freeze it! Here are the steps:
1. Rinse the spinach and remove any excess water.
2. Spread the spinach on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 2-3 hours or until frozen solid.
3. Transfer the frozen spinach to a resealable bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
4. When ready to use, thaw the spinach overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Spinach for Smoothies
When freezing spinach for smoothies, there are a few necessary steps to take in order to ensure that the final product is safe to consume. The first step is to make sure that the spinach is clean and free of any dirt or debris. Rinse the leaves thoroughly in cold water. Then, blanch the spinach leaves by boiling them in hot water for one minute. This will help to kill any bacteria that may be present. Finally, drain the leaves and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for several hours or until solid. Once frozen, store the spinach in an airtight container or freezer bag.
How To Thaw Frozen Spinach for Smoothies
Here are the steps to thaw frozen spinach for smoothies:
1. Remove the frozen spinach from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.
2. Once thawed, remove any excess water by squeezing the spinach with your hands or a kitchen towel.
3. Add the thawed spinach to your favorite smoothie recipe.
How Long Does Spinach for Smoothies Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
The best way to store spinach is to keep it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. It should last for about four or five days.
You can also freeze spinach by wrapping it tightly in plastic and then placing it in a freezer bag. It will stay fresh for about six months.
How Long Does Spinach for Smoothies Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
The Center for Science in the Public Interest says that spinach can last for about five days in the fridge. It’s best to store it in a bag with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and keep it away from strong-smelling foods. If you’re not going to use it within five days, you can freeze spinach for up to six months. Just make sure to cook it before eating, as freezing does change the texture of the vegetable.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Spinach for Smoothies?
Ideas
– Add spinach to your morning smoothie for an extra boost of nutrients.
– Use spinach as the base of a green smoothie.
– Add chopped spinach to soups or stews near the end of cooking.
– Stir wilted spinach into cooked pasta or rice.
– Mix chopped spinach with scrambled eggs or an omelet.
– Make a spinach and cheese dip for chips or vegetables.
– Top a pizza with fresh spinach leaves instead of tomato sauce.
