With winter in full swing leaving us with crisp temperatures and grey skies, a delicious, nutritious and refreshing burst of blended fruit is a great way to put a pep in your step! There are so many different combinations of fruit, nuts, spices and veggies to make a healthy and filling smoothie. And while I enjoy a breakfast bowl with fruit, yogurt and nuts, a smoothie is a little more convenient as you can take it from the kitchen counter to school, work or the gym without spilling or juggling your breakfast. I have juggled a plate or a bowl a few times. I have walked to work with a plate in hand. One mile. Uncovered, because I like to live dangerously. It seems silly, but when I miscalculate the amount of time I have to get ready and eat before leaving out the front door, the result is me juggling my plate or bowl. Skipping breakfast is not an option, either. And speaking from experience, a smoothie is a great alternative! However, one must take into consideration the amount of sugar that goes in a smoothie. Using fruit juices elevates the sugar level astronomically. So, sticking with milk or unsweetened milk alternatives is one way to control the sugar. For added health benefits, I started adding a variety of spices to smoothies to amp the anti-inflammatory properties of each drink. My recipe for Pomegranate and Berry Smoothie contains cayenne and ginger which both aid in digestion and contain anti-inflammatory benefits. This recipe is easily doubled and you can play around with the ice and liquid amount based on how thick you like your smoothie!
Starting with frozen fruit ensures the smoothie will be nice and cold, but using fresh fruit is an excellent choice too – adding ice to the drink will keep it cold too!
The blended goodness. All natural, all healthy, all delicious!
I love using a spoon to enjoy a thick smoothie, especially when there are pomegranates involved! The crisp, burst of tart flavor of the pomegranate contrasts nicely with the smoothly blended breakfast drink!
- ½ cup frozen berries (I used strawberries and raspberries)
- ¼ cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
- ½ cup almond milk, unsweetened, vanilla flavored
- ½ banana, peeled
- 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ¼ cup plain yogurt or greek style yogurt
- ¼ cup ice, optional
- ¼ teaspoon ginger, powdered OR ⅛ teaspoon freshly juiced ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- pomegranate seeds for garnish
- sliced almonds for garnish (optional)
- In a blender or magic bullet, combine all ingredients and blend until smooth. If you find the smoothie is not sweet to your liking, add a little bit of honey or maple syrup to your taste. Garnish with pomegranate seeds. Enjoy!
Nothing makes me happier than being able to view your photos on an even bigger screen :D! This looks DELICIOUS. Your photos blow my mind!
Hi Summer,
Thank you so much for the lovely compliment!
Cheers,
Natalie
Love this smoothie and it’s vibrant colour! Have to make the recipe for breakfast tomorrow – what an awesome (and delicious) way to start the day off.
Hi Thalia,
Cheers! I hope you enjoy it as much as I have!