Frozen berries, creamy banana, pomegranate, a splash of cranberry juice and a little nopal powder, blended into one beautiful glass. It is naturally sweet and ready in under five minutes.
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The Story Behind This Smoothie
I first made this smoothie for my toddler. Today it is a staple in our home, for breakfast or a midday snack.
Key Ingredients
Ingredients
Mixed Berries (Blueberries, Raspberries, Blackberries)
This trio of frozen berries is the base of the smoothie. Frozen berries make it cold and thick without needing ice.
Pomegranate
Fresh pomegranate arils add a jewel-like burst of flavour.
Banana
A ripe banana gives the smoothie its creamy body and natural sweetness without any added sugar.
Nopal Powder
Derived from the prickly pear cactus, nopal powder is made from dried cactus pads. I use just a teaspoon, and it’s optional.
Cranberry Juice
A splash of unsweetened cranberry juice adds tartness.
Looking for more drinks and snacks? Try our Celery Juice for a fresh morning drink, or our Matcha Avocado Popsicles for a frozen treat. The Easy Blueberry Ice Cream is another berry-forward favourite the whole family loves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh berries work fine. Frozen berries are preferred because they make the smoothie cold and thick without needing ice. If using fresh berries, add a handful of ice cubes to achieve the right consistency.
What can I substitute for nopal powder?
If you cannot find nopal powder, you can simply leave it out — the smoothie is still delicious without it.
Can kids drink this smoothie?
I first made it for my toddler. For very young children (under 12 months), consult your paediatrician before introducing certain berry varieties.
Can I add protein powder to this smoothie?
Absolutely. A scoop of plant-based protein powder pairs well with the berry flavours. Vanilla or unflavoured protein powder blends in most seamlessly.
How long can I store this smoothie?
This smoothie is best consumed immediately after blending for the freshest flavour. If needed, you can store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir or shake well before drinking as natural separation will occur. Do not freeze the blended smoothie — the texture becomes watery when thawed.
Can I use a regular blender instead of a high-speed blender?
Yes. A regular blender works, though you may end up with small berry seeds in the final smoothie. For the smoothest texture, blend on high for at least 60 seconds. A high-speed blender like a Vitamix or Ninja will give you a completely silky result, but any blender will produce a delicious smoothie.
Mixed Berry Smoothie with Pomegranate and Nopal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- add everything to a high speed blender, and blend well. Serve immediately.
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