Tart Cranberry Smoothie Blitz
Kickstart your day with this vibrant, high-fiber smoothie, packed with the tangy goodness of cranberries and natural sweetness from banana. It's a quick and refreshing way to get a shot of antioxidants and essential nutrients.
For 1 serving
Gather all your ingredients and a high-speed blender.
Pour the plain Greek yogurt (or almond milk) into the blender first. This liquid base helps the blades move more efficiently.
Add the frozen banana slices, frozen raw cranberries, and chia seeds to the blender.
Secure the lid tightly and blend on high speed for 30-60 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to use the tamper or stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula if ingredients get stuck.
Check the consistency. If the smoothie is too thick for your preference, add an additional tablespoon or two of almond milk (or water) and blend again until the desired consistency is achieved.
Pour the finished smoothie immediately into a glass and serve. Enjoy its refreshing tartness and creamy texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For optimal creaminess, ensure your banana is fully frozen. Slice ripe bananas before freezing for easier blending.
- 2If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, add a small amount of maple syrup, honey, or a pitted Medjool date before blending.
- 3Always add liquids to the blender first, followed by softer ingredients, and then frozen items. This layering helps prevent air pockets and ensures a smoother blend.
- 4To make this smoothie ahead, blend it and pour it into an airtight jar. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though some separation may occur (just shake before drinking).
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add 1 scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder for an extra protein kick, making it a more substantial meal replacement.
Green PowerGreen Power
Incorporate a handful of fresh spinach or kale. The strong cranberry color will mask the green, and you won't taste it, but you'll get added vitamins and minerals.
Spice it UpSpice it Up
Add 1/4 tsp of ground ginger or cardamom for a warm, aromatic twist that pairs wonderfully with cranberries.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Chia seeds, bananas, and cranberries contribute significantly to the fiber content, aiding digestion, promoting satiety, and supporting gut health.
Rich in Antioxidants
Cranberries are renowned for their high antioxidant levels, particularly proanthocyanidins, which help protect cells from damage and support overall immune function.
Vitamin & Mineral Boost
This smoothie provides essential vitamins like Vitamin C (from cranberries) and potassium (from banana), along with calcium and protein if using Greek yogurt.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you might want to add a few ice cubes (about 1/4 cup) to achieve a cold, thick consistency, as fresh cranberries won't contribute to the chill or thickness as much as frozen ones.
