This easy-to-make smoothie is packed with delicious and nutritious ingredients to help you stay healthy during the holidays. This amazing smoothie has two antioxidant-rich ingredients: beets and cranberries. Add a handful of blueberries to the blender too, and VOILA! - antioxidant power!
We boast a lot about beets here at Just Beet It, but we get jazzed about other foods too. Cranberries are amazing! Many of us know that cranberries offer superhero support with urinary tract health; however, cranberries are packed with other health benefits too.
Often seen as a seasonal fruit in the Fall and Winter months, cranberries contain immense nutritional value. Studies show this potent and powerful tiny fruit can improve digestion, help balance blood pressure, help prevent gum disease, support colon health, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation (thanks to its super awesome antioxidants). Wow!
Self care is important, especially in the colder months when immune systems tend to be lower. Cranberries help boost immunity with a big dose of Vitamin C. This tiny fruit also offers an extremely high concentration of antioxidants which help reduce inflammation and keep your cells healthy and happy.
Like cranberries, the extraordinary red beet is also a superstar when it comes to antioxidants. The vibrant red color from beets that stains your counter tops and hands is actually an incredible antioxidant called betalain, a pigment found in many plants that aids in reducing inflammation in the body and fighting against free radicals. Red beets help reduce inflammation AND keep your immune system strong.
The combination of beets and cranberries may seem strange, but surprisingly, they make a great pairing. This Cranberry Beet Smoothie is the most delightful blend of tart cranberries, creamy banana, and earthy beet with a hint of citrus.
The cranberry’s tart flavor is less pronounced when combined with banana, beets, and orange juice or almond milk. Is this smoothie still tart? Yup. There is a slight tart taste, so if you find that unpleasant, add a few Medjool dates, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener. We just happen to love the tart/sweet combo!
This holiday season, practice a little self love and keep your immune system strong and your cells happy. Cheers to you feeling merry, bright, and healthy!
For more antioxidant-rich recipes try: Vegan Beet Blueberry Protein Smoothie / Beet Walnut Dip / Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie with Golden Beet, Turmeric, and Orange.
CRANBERRY BEET HOLIDAY SMOOTHIE (VEGAN / GLUTEN-FREE)
INGREDIENTS (servings 1)
1 red small-medium red beet, peeled
1 frozen banana
1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries or blueberries
1/2 cup pure orange juice or almond milk*
1 scoop plant-based unflavored protein powder (optional)
1-2 pitted Medjool dates (optional for added sweetness)
*The liquid base is versatile and depends on your preferred sweetness and texture. Berries, bananas, and beets are naturally sweet, so this smoothie utilizes the natural sugars from fruits and veggies. Orange juice will be the sweetest. Almond milk makes a lovely liquid base as it adds some creaminess and neutralizes the sweetness. Almond milk may also create a more pink hue rather than a vibrant red one.
DIRECTIONS
Wash all ingredients. Peel the beets. We prefer using raw beets, but you can always blend a cooked beet or ready-to-eat baby beet.
Add all of the ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth.
Add extra orange juice or almond milk if you prefer a thinner texture.
Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator in a mason jar. Best consumed within 2 days.
NOTES:
Fresh fruit and frozen fruit offer different consistencies to smoothies. If you use fresh fruit, your smoothies may not be cold. If using fresh fruit, add ice when blending. Adding baby spinach or baby kale is a great addition (and you won’t even taste the greens!), but the smoothie color may vary. Enjoy!
Cranberries are packed with nutrition; however, those who have kidney issues should eat cranberries in moderation. Also - like many foods, excessive consumption may cause an upset stomach and other side effects. Listen to your body and check with your doctor(s) for any health concerns.
STILL HUNGRY?
