Name: Berry Chia Seed Beet Smoothie
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 3 small cooked beets ((about 3/4 cup, chopped)); 2 cups frozen blueberries; 1 cup unsweetened apple cider or apple juice; 1 cup light canned coconut milk; 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

There’s something incredibly refreshing about starting your day with a smoothie that’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. Enter the Berry Chia Seed Beet Smoothie. This vibrant drink combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the tangy burst of blueberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or a quick afternoon pick-me-up. Let’s dive into why this smoothie is a must-try and how you can make it at home!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Berry Chia Seed Beet Smoothie stands out for several reasons. First, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables into your diet without compromising on taste. The beets add a subtle sweetness and a beautiful color, making your smoothie not just nutritious but visually appealing. Second, the addition of chia seeds provides a boost of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, promoting heart health and aiding digestion. Lastly, it’s versatile—perfect for any season and easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delightful smoothie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3 small cooked beets (about 3/4 cup, chopped) – Beets are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and they add a natural sweetness.
2 cups frozen blueberries – These berries are packed with nutrients, including vitamins C and K, and provide a tart tang to balance the sweetness of the beets.
1 cup unsweetened apple cider or apple juice – This adds a fruity base and complements the flavors beautifully.
1 cup light canned coconut milk – Coconut milk gives the smoothie a creamy texture and a subtle tropical flavor.
1 tablespoon chia seeds – A fantastic source of fiber and omega-3s, chia seeds help thicken the smoothie and add a nutritional punch.
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon – This spice adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile of the smoothie.

Recommended Tools

To make your Berry Chia Seed Beet Smoothie, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

Blender – A high-speed blender works best to ensure a smooth consistency.
Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor.
Serving glass or mason jar – For serving your delicious creation in style!
Spoon – For stirring in those chia seeds after blending if you prefer them to have a bit of texture.

Step-by-Step: Berry Chia Seed Beet Smoothie

Making this smoothie is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you haven’t cooked your beets yet, you can easily do so by boiling or roasting them until tender. Allow them to cool, then chop them into smaller pieces for easier blending.

Step 2: Blend the Base

In your blender, combine the chopped beets, frozen blueberries, unsweetened apple cider (or juice), and light canned coconut milk. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If your blender struggles, add a little more liquid to help it along.

Step 3: Add Chia Seeds and Cinnamon

Once you have a smooth base, add the chia seeds and ground cinnamon. Pulse the blender a few times to incorporate them into the mixture. This will help the chia seeds maintain some of their texture.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Give your smoothie a taste. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Blend again briefly to mix in any additional sweeteners.