Beetroot Cherry and Acai Smoothie

Beetroot Cherry and Acai Smoothie Bowl

Appearances are anything but deceptive in this instance - the naturally bright and vivid reddish purple is the epitome of antioxidant goodness! Such a perfect boost at breakfast or any time of the day.

Beetroot is stamina and performance boosting, by making muscles work harder. It contains antioxidants, potassium, magnesium, iron, vitamins A, B6 and C and folate as well as energy from carbohydrates to fuel the body through the day.

Beetroot Cherry and Acai Smoothie

The antioxidants in cherries have purported anti-cancer properties, with flavonoids eliminating oxidative stress and preventing premature ageing. Cherries have also been shown to increase melatonin levels in blood to improve sleep.

Extra natural sweetness from the Acai juice further ramps up the antioxidant content of this smoothie. Acai berries are richer in antioxidant than cranberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries and blueberries!

Together with the 3 bright red ingredients there is a lovely warm hint of cinnamon, which has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and some chia seeds which give the smoothie a luscious thickness as well as providing essential omega 3 fatty acids.

Phew - that is a whole lot of goodness in a glass! Alternatively serve this in a bowl and top with coconut cream, dessicated coconut and some refreshing mint leaves.


Beetroot Cherry and Acai Smoothie 

Grain-free, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Refined Sugar-free

Ingredients:
1 cooked beetroot (approx 115g), peeled (I roast them whole with a small amount of olive oil then peel when cool)
3/4 cup (approx 18) cherries, pitted (fresh or frozen - frozen gives a thicker texture)
1 tbsp acai juice
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup coconut milk or water (adjust to preferred thickness)

Instructions:
1. Put all ingredients into a blender/ processor (I use a Nutribullet) and blend until smooth.

2. Pour into glass to drink with an extra blob of coconut cream swirled in if it takes your fancy, or into a bowl and top with coconut cream, unsweetened dessicated coconut and torn mint leaves.

Beetroot Cherry Acai Smoothie with coconut cream swirl