📝 About This Recipe
Elevate your morning ritual with this vibrant, nutrient-dense masterpiece that balances the deep, tart notes of wild blueberries with the nutty complexity of golden flaxseeds. This smoothie isn't just a drink; it's a silky, purple-hued elixir designed to provide sustained energy and a powerful punch of omega-3s. With a creamy base of Greek yogurt and a hint of warmth from ground cinnamon, it offers a sophisticated flavor profile that tastes more like a treat than a health habit.
🥗 Ingredients
The Fruit Base
- 2 cups Frozen Wild Blueberries (frozen provides a thicker, frostier texture)
- 1 large Frozen Banana (peeled and sliced before freezing for creaminess)
Protein & Healthy Fats
- 1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (full-fat or 2% for the best mouthfeel)
- 3 tablespoons Ground Flaxseeds (use golden flax for a milder flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Almond Butter (creamy and unsalted)
Liquid & Aromatics
- 1 1/2 cups Unsweetened Almond Milk (plus more if needed for consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (enhances the sweetness of the berries)
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (adds a subtle spicy warmth)
- 1 teaspoon Raw Honey or Maple Syrup (optional, adjust based on berry sweetness)
- 1 squeeze Fresh Lemon Juice (brightens the blueberry flavor)
Optional Garnishes
- 1 handful Fresh Blueberries (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon Hemp Hearts (for added texture)
- 2 leaves Fresh Mint Sprig (for a refreshing aroma)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
Chill your serving glasses in the freezer for at least 5 minutes to ensure your smoothie stays frosty until the very last sip.
-
2
Begin by adding the liquid base—the almond milk and Greek yogurt—to the blender pitcher first. Placing liquids at the bottom helps the blades move freely.
-
3
Add the ground flaxseeds and almond butter directly into the liquid. This ensures they are fully incorporated and don't stick to the sides of the blender.
-
4
Incorporate the 'flavor makers': add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and the optional honey or maple syrup.
-
5
Add the frozen banana slices. Using frozen fruit is the secret to a thick, milkshake-like consistency without watering it down with ice.
-
6
Pour in the frozen wild blueberries. Wild berries are smaller and pack more flavor and antioxidants than conventional cultivated berries.
-
7
Secure the lid tightly and start the blender on the lowest speed setting.
-
8
Slowly increase the speed to high. Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until the mixture looks perfectly smooth and deep violet.
-
9
Stop the blender and check the consistency. If it is too thick, add another splash of almond milk and pulse for 5 seconds.
-
10
Taste the smoothie. If you prefer it more tart, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice; if sweeter, add another drop of honey.
-
11
Pour the smoothie into your chilled glasses immediately.
-
12
Garnish with a few fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of hemp hearts for a professional, café-style finish.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use 'milled' or ground flaxseeds, as the whole seeds can pass through the body undigested, missing out on the nutritional benefits. For a boost of hidden greens, add a handful of baby spinach; the dark purple of the blueberries will completely mask the green color. If you find your blender struggling, let the frozen fruit sit at room temperature for 3 minutes before blending to slightly soften the exterior. To make this vegan, simply swap the Greek yogurt for a coconut or soy-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey. Freeze your overripe bananas in coins ahead of time to ensure you always have the perfect creamy base ready to go.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a slice of toasted sourdough topped with ricotta and lemon zest for a complete brunch. Serve alongside a handful of raw walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and satiety. Enjoy as a post-workout recovery drink to replenish glycogen and provide muscle-repairing protein. Pour into a bowl instead of a glass and top with granola and sliced kiwi to enjoy as a 'Smoothie Bowl'. Serve in a tall glass with a reusable wide-gauge straw to easily enjoy the thick, velvety texture.