Secrets to Success

• When making a smoothie, I like to opt for as many frozen ingredients as possible. It not only makes the smoothie cost-effective, but also contributes to the overall texture--no need to add ice (which eventually waters down a smoothie, and makes it less creamy). Don't fear frozen! Produce is frozen at peak ripeness, and has been said to retain its nutrients better than produce sitting on a shelf. 
• Typically, I'll make this smoothie sans optional add-ins, because I'm accustomed to a smoothie with mild sweetness. I prefer to sweeten with fruit, and using a vanilla protein powder adds a really nice touch of flavour. If you prefer, however, you can sweeten naturally with a medjool date or two, frozen berries and/or mango.
• It's always a good idea to use what you have on hand, and you can definitely be flexible with ingredients. For example. in place of spinach, you could use chard, or kale if you prefer. In place of zucchini, you can use squash, or cauliflower (though personally I prefer squash/zucchini much more than cauliflower for texture). Do you!
• For best texture results, I highly recommend using a high power blender (I use a Vitamix A2500) if you intend to make a bowl. You should also use the tamper to help break down the smoothie without needing to add additional liquid. Less is always more when it comes to making a smoothie bowl. Check out this blogpost for more tips on making thick, instagrammable smoothie bowls.