Introduction
Chia seeds, once a staple in ancient Aztec and Mayan diets, have made a remarkable comeback in modern nutrition. These tiny powerhouses were so valued that they were often used as currency. Today, we're harnessing their incredible nutritional benefits in this Berry Chia Boost Smoothie. Perfect for busy mornings or as a post-workout refresher, this smoothie combines the ancient wisdom of chia seeds with the vibrant flavors of mixed berries. It's a testament to how ancient superfoods can be deliciously incorporated into our contemporary lifestyles, offering a quick and tasty way to fuel our bodies with essential nutrients.
Ingredients
• 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1/2 cup ice cubes
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 small ripe banana, peeled and sliced
Step 1:
Add almond milk, Greek yogurt, mixed berries, banana, chia seeds, honey (if using), vanilla extract, and ice cubes to the blender.
Step 2:
Blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds, or until smooth and creamy.
Step 3:
Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more honey and blending briefly.
Step 4:
Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Q: Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
A: While best enjoyed immediately, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir or shake well before drinking.
Q: How can I make this smoothie vegan?
A: Simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt.
Q: Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen berries work great and will make your smoothie thicker and colder. You may need to reduce or omit the ice cubes.
• For a vegan option, substitute Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt.
• Use frozen mixed berries for a thicker, colder smoothie.
• Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey as desired.
• For extra protein, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
• This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and tree nuts (almond milk). Use suitable alternatives for allergies.
• Choose organic berries when possible for fewer pesticides.
Pour into a tall glass and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with a few fresh berries or a sprinkle of chia seeds.
Best consumed immediately. If necessary, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir or shake well before drinking.
For a quick morning routine, prepare and measure ingredients the night before.
- Use frozen mixed berries for a thicker, colder smoothie without diluting the flavor with ice.
- Soak chia seeds in the almond milk for 5-10 minutes before blending for a smoother texture.
- Add ingredients to the blender in the order listed for optimal blending.
For a tropical twist, replace half the berries with mango or pineapple. For a green smoothie variation, add a handful of spinach or kale.
Pair with whole grain toast and almond butter for a complete breakfast.
Best in summer when fresh berries are abundant, but can be enjoyed year-round using frozen berries.
Contains dairy (Greek yogurt) and tree nuts (almond milk). May contain traces of other allergens depending on the source of ingredients.