Berry & Brazil Nut Smoothie
This vibrant Berry & Brazil Nut Smoothie is a quick, delicious, and nutrient-dense way to kickstart your day, offering a powerful blend of antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential minerals.
For 1 serving
Gather all ingredients. If using fresh berries instead of frozen, consider adding 1/2 cup of ice cubes for a colder, thicker smoothie.
Add the Greek yogurt, frozen mixed berries, Brazil nuts, and optional chia seeds to a high-speed blender.
Pour in the milk or water. Start with 1/2 cup and add more gradually if needed to reach your desired consistency.
If desired, add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness, adjusting to your taste preference.
Blend on low speed initially to break down the frozen ingredients, then increase to high speed.
Continue blending until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy, with no visible chunks of nuts or berries. If it's too thick, add a little more liquid; if too thin, add a few more frozen berries or a small amount of ice.
Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Optimize for Selenium: Brazil nuts are potent; just 1-2 nuts provide your daily selenium needs. More isn't necessarily better and can lead to selenium toxicity over time.
- 2Frozen Fruit is Key: Using frozen berries eliminates the need for too much ice, resulting in a thicker, colder smoothie with more intense fruit flavor and less dilution.
- 3Layering Matters: For best blending, add liquids first, then soft ingredients (yogurt), followed by frozen fruit and nuts on top. This helps the blades catch everything efficiently.
- 4Adjust Consistency: Start with less liquid and gradually add more until you reach your preferred thickness. For a thicker smoothie, add more frozen fruit or a banana; for thinner, add more milk/water.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Power-Up
Add a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder for an extra boost, or swap Greek yogurt for Icelandic skyr for even more protein.
Tropical TwistTropical Twist
Incorporate 1/4 cup of frozen mango or pineapple chunks along with the berries for a more exotic flavor profile and added sweetness.
Vegan DelightVegan Delight
Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt (e.g., coconut or almond yogurt) and use plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk to make this recipe entirely vegan.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Thyroid Support
Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium, a crucial mineral for healthy thyroid function and hormone production, which plays a vital role in metabolism.
Antioxidant Rich
Mixed berries are packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help combat free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and support overall cellular health.
Digestive Health
Greek yogurt provides beneficial probiotics for a healthy gut microbiome, while chia seeds add dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
Frequently asked questions
While best enjoyed fresh, you can make it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir well before drinking, as some separation may occur and the texture might thin slightly.
