During a hot summer afternoon, there are few flavors as satisfying as fresh fruit. Toss some raspberries and strawberries into your Blendtec and you have a delicious and refreshing berry red smoothie that will keep you cool and satiated during a long day in the sun. 

Berries are great for smoothies because they are high in essential nutrients such as vitamins and antioxidants. This recipe will give you a boost of energy while improving your overall health. Take advantage of berry season and indulge in a summertime favorite with this simple red smoothie recipe. 

Benefits of Red Berry Smoothies

Need more fruit in your diet? It’s easy (and tasty) to grab some of your favorite fruits and whip them into a yummy smoothie with your Blendtec. Red berry smoothies are particularly beneficial because blending is a great way to get all the essential nutrients you need, from powerful antioxidants to immune-boosting vitamins. And because you can use fresh or frozen berries, the ingredients for this red smoothie are available all year long. 

Berries, including raspberries and strawberries, contain an ample supply of antioxidants and phytonutrients. Antioxidants are important because they keep unstable molecules called free radicals under control, which reduces the amount of oxidative stress in your body. An antioxidant-rich diet will reduce your chances of developing chronic conditions such as cancer and diabetes. The antioxidants found in berries are also known to decrease inflammation in the body. 

Like antioxidants, the phytonutrients in raspberries and strawberries have anti-inflammatory properties. These nutrients also boost your immune system and help repair DNA damage. 

Last but not least, drinking fruit smoothies can also help you get a healthy dose of fiber, which aids in digestion. Apples and berries both have high concentrations of soluble fiber. This fiber slows digestion, leaving you feeling fuller for longer.

Which Berries and Superfoods Does this Red Smoothie Contain? 

This berry red smoothie recipe is overflowing with superfoods. It contains the following ingredients: 

Raspberries: This sweet, juicy fruit is not only delicious, but it’s also a superfood. The strong source of antioxidants and other nutrients in raspberries supports heart health and cancer prevention. They even help keep your eyes healthy! Add them frozen or fresh to your smoothie. 

Strawberries: Bring on the Vitamin C, because this fruit is bursting with it. Strawberries will give your immune system and your skin a lift while providing your body with other friendly nutrients, such as potassium, folate, and fiber. 

Bananas: Bananas are one of the most popular superfoods, because they’re tasty, versatile and good for you. The fiber and starch in bananas help moderate blood sugar levels, and their potassium can lower blood pressure. If you eat a banana a day, you may well keep the doctor away. 

When to Serve a Red Smoothie

A cold berry red smoothie looks appetizing on a picnic table in the middle of summer, but it is also just as good as an afternoon pick-me-up at work in the fall. The truth is, part of this red smoothie recipe’s appeal is its versatility. 

Make one for breakfast to get your nutrients in early in the day, or sip on one in the afternoon for a fresh boost of energy. This red smoothie can substitute a meal or be served as a snack. 

People on vegan diets or other restrictive diets can enjoy them, too. This tasty beverage can’t get much better, can it? 

What Can You Add to Your Red Berry Smoothie? 

The four simple ingredients in this red smoothie recipe are enough for a tasty, healthy treat, but there are some ways to raise the nutritional content even more. 

• Throw in some spinach leaves (fresh or frozen) to give your body more vitamins and minerals. Spinach is flavorless, but it will alter the color of your bright red smoothie.
• Flaxseeds and chia seeds contain proteins and fibers that will improve your digestion and keep your stomach full. Add them when you want your smoothie to hold you over until your next meal. 
• Scoop in a dollop of Greek yogurt to make your red smoothie more creamy and protein-packed. A scoop or two of yogurt gives you some protein for a well-balanced meal. 

Give this recipe a try and comment about your experience below!