With summer approaching, a reader requested a low-point fruit smoothie — so here it is: Very Blueberry Smoothie. Smoothies are an excellent, convenient way to help reach your daily fruit goals. Blueberries provide antioxidants, dietary fiber and vitamin C, and they add natural sweetness and vibrant color to this refreshing drink. Below is the simple recipe along with tips, variations, and storage advice to help you make the best blueberry smoothie every time.
Very Blueberry Smoothie
Yield: 2 servings — Serving size: 1 cup
Nutrition (per 1 cup): Calories: 80.5 kcal; Carbohydrates: 16.2 g; Protein: 3.4 g; Fiber: 3 g.
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Drinks — Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 cup crushed ice
- 6 oz fat-free blueberry-flavored yogurt (or plain nonfat yogurt with a splash of vanilla)
Instructions
- Combine the blueberries, crushed ice, and yogurt in a blender.
- Blend on high until completely smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides if needed.
- Pour into two glasses and serve immediately with a straw.
Tips for the Best Blueberry Smoothie
- If using fresh blueberries, add a few ice cubes to chill the drink thoroughly. If using frozen berries, reduce or omit the crushed ice depending on desired thickness.
- For a thinner smoothie, add a splash of cold water, unsweetened almond milk, or another milk alternative and blend to combine.
- To increase protein without changing flavor much, add a scoop of plain or vanilla protein powder, Greek yogurt in place of regular nonfat yogurt, or a tablespoon of nut butter.
- For extra antioxidants and healthy fats, add a teaspoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds. These will also add fiber and help keep you full longer.
- Sweeten sparingly: the blueberry yogurt often provides enough sweetness. If desired, use a small amount of honey, maple syrup, or a zero-calorie sweetener to taste.
Variations
Customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs:
- Vegan: Replace the nonfat yogurt with a plant-based blueberry or vanilla yogurt (soy, almond or coconut) and use plant-based milk if needed.
- Green blueberry smoothie: Add a handful of fresh spinach or baby kale. The mild flavor blends well with blueberries and won’t overpower the color much.
- Tropical twist: Add 1/4 cup frozen mango or pineapple for a tangy-sweet variation.
- Breakfast boost: Add 1/4 cup oats to the blender for a heartier, more filling smoothie.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Smoothies are best enjoyed immediately for optimal texture and flavor, but you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Stir or re-blend briefly before drinking. If you plan ahead, freeze individual portions of the blueberries or pre-measure ingredients into freezer bags so you can blend a fresh smoothie in under a minute.
Why Blueberries?
Blueberries are a popular choice in smoothies because they bring natural sweetness, a deep purple-blue color, and nutritional benefits. They contain dietary fiber and vitamin C and are commonly noted for their antioxidant content. Mixing them with yogurt adds creaminess and a modest boost of protein while keeping the smoothie light and refreshing.
Last Step
If you make this Very Blueberry Smoothie, consider leaving a rating or a short comment about how you liked it. Feedback helps improve the recipe and helps others discover it.