Vitamix Love - Green Smoothie with Apples

Guess what? I did it. I finally made the leap and got a Vitamix blender.
It's red, beautiful, and a super powerful machine.
I'm in love.
I'm making more green smoothies than ever. It is a wonderful feeling to toss in big chunks of fruit and hearty greens into the Vitamix and totally trust it to create this silky drink in seconds.
Had my first smoothie with arugula this week....and whoa....that was different. Makes you sit up and take notice. May take a little getting used to, but it's all good fuel for the body.
Jay just wants to know when we are using the Vitamix to make some "adult beverages"?....

It's kind of funny...some of the things I used to think were a little odd, are becoming part of my smoothie repetoire. Like chia seeds. 
Strange, little, gelatinous seeds that pack a punch of omega 3's, anti-oxidants, protein, and fiber. They've definitely grown on me. Plus, it's just kind of food science cool to soak them and watch them grow into 
a chia "gel". Rad.
And for this smoothie, I added cilantro as well (glad the hubs didn't notice) - one of my favorite herbs ever. Added a nice clean kick.

Do I think you have to have a Vitamix to make green smoothies? No.
Does it make them infinitely more pleasurable? Oh yes.
Are you a green smoothie devotee? Would LOVE to hear about your winning green smoothie recipe? Let's share some healthy inspiration!

Green Smoothie with Apples

1 1/2 to 2 cups filtered water
2 apples, washed and rough chopped
1 cup chopped mango, fresh or frozen
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon ginger root, peeled and rough chopped
2 cups mild greens {I used spinach}
Large handful cilantro, washed
1/4 cup to 1/2 cup fresh mint, washed
Some ice cubes, optional

In a small bowl, add some filtered water to the chia seeds {about 3 tablespoons}. Stir and allow to soak for about 10-15 minutes or until gelatinous.
Add 1 1/2 - 2 cups of water to blender. Follow with apples, mango, chia gel, ginger, greens, and herbs.
Turn Vitamix on and slowly turn up to speed 10. Process for about 30-45 seconds. Add ice cubes and process if you like a more chilled or frosty result.
Drink up!