This Cilantro Smoothie doubles as a detox and a refreshing beverage. Packed with incredible nutrients and antioxidants, you’ll barely taste the cilantro but reap all the benefits!

Cilantro in a smoothie? Trust me, it’s the best! This unexpected smoothie ingredient has exceptional health benefits. And, when you consider the cost and accessibility of other superfood smoothie ingredients, cilantro (also known as coriander leaves) stands out as an easy choice. You can get a bunch at your local grocery store for $2 or less.

This smoothie with cilantro is both nutritious, affordable, and delicious. It’s one of my favorite drinks to jumpstart my day. I love it because it is:

Detoxifying -goodbye heavy metals and toxins!
Low in Calories
Quick & Easy to Prepare
Great on an empty stomach OR after a meal or workout
Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free

For more detoxifying drinks, try my Spirulina Smoothie, Tropical Papaya Smoothie, and Cucumber Lemon Ginger Water.

overhead view of a cup of cilantro smoothie

The Benefits of Drinking Cilantro

Cilantro is more than a tasty addition to tacos, salads, and gucamole. Add it to beverages like juice, smoothies, and tea, to consume more of this leafy green herb.

Detoxing Properties: Cilantro is believed to have detoxifying effects. It has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial, and chelating properties that bind to heavy metals like lead and mercury and help remove them from the body. This also makes it great for combatting food poisoning and dysentery.
Nutrient-Rich. Cilantro is loaded with vital vitamins and minerals that your body needs to stay healthy. It has vitamins A, C, and K, which are great for your skin, immune system, and bones. It also contains folate, potassium, and manganese, which help with everything from cell growth to healthy brain function and heart health.
Antioxidant Properties. Cilantro is full of antioxidants (substances that protect your cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals). Antioxidants reduce this damage, reducing inflammation in your body, which is linked to many chronic diseases.
Regulates Blood Sugar. Studies show that cilantro helps lower blood sugar levels. This is especially important for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing it. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels prevents spikes and crashes that can affect your energy and mood.
Improves Digestive Health. Use the herb to improve digestion. It can reduce bloating after meals. It supports a healthy gut, which is essential for overall well-being since most of the immune system is in the gut.

two glasses of cilantro smoothie; one garnished with a cucumber slice and the other with fresh cilantro

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh Cilantro: Our main ingredient is known for its powerful detoxifying ingredients but it also supports liver health.
Kiwi fruit: This fruit adds a natural, tangy, tropical sweetness that offsets the peppery taste of cilantro. Kiwi is also a good source of fiber, and rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and improves skin health.
Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate, spinach supports healthy vision, boosts the immune system, and promotes healthy blood cells.
Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories, cucumber is excellent for detoxification and supports healthy skin. It also provides vitamins K and C and potassium.
Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, ginger aids digestion, reduces nausea, and can help alleviate muscle pain and soreness.
Coconut water: This liquid is a natural electrolyte so it’s great for hydration. It also contains potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which support heart health and muscle function.

How To Make a Cilantro Smoothie

Wondering how to use cilantro in smoothies? It’s as easy as 1, 2 (we don’t even need the 3)!

STEP 1: Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.

STEP 2: Then add more coconut water if desired, or ice for a thicker consistency.

Common Questions

Can you put cilantro in a smoothie?

Absolutely! Cilantro is one of the healthiest greens you can add to a smoothie. Using herbs in your drink adds a peppery depth to the flavor as well as detoxifying properties and nutrients.

What fruit goes with cilantro?

Sweet fruits like kiwi, pineapple, and bananas pair well with the spicy taste of cilantro.

Can I use the stems of the cilantro, or just the leaves?

You can use both the stems and leaves of cilantro. The stems are just as flavorful and contain the same health benefits, so no need to waste them!

Can I prepare this smoothie ahead of time?

It’s best to drink your cilantro smoothie fresh to enjoy maximum nutrients. However, you can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or stir before drinking.