Beet Blueberry Smoothie

Blogging Marathon #43: Week 4/ Day 1

Theme: Smoothies

Dish: Beet Blueberry Smoothie

For Week 4 of the Blogging Marathon, the theme I have picked is 'Smoothies'. Smoothies are one of my favorite breakfasts for summer, as it is cool and refreshing and also breaks the monotony of cereal and oatmeal. Plus there is no real cooking here, it is as simple as throw ingredients in a blender, blend and enjoy. So, when this was one of the themes available for the marathon, I was super excited. My mission was to try smoothies with different colors and flavors, that I hadn't done before. As a first I have this 'Beet Blueberry Smoothie'.

Combining fruits and vegetables in a single smoothie has been my latest smoothie peev. Finding the mix that compliments each other in flavor, texture, smell and color is important - and in all of those categories this one is a winner. Not only that - you can't beat the health benefits this has to offer. Blueberries are one of the super foods with the highest amount of antioxidants and beetroot is known for better stamina, increasing blood flow to the brain and to lower blood pressure.

Check out the Blogging Marathon page for the other Blogging Marathoners doing BM#43

Add all the ingredients to a blender, blend until smooth. Thin with water or milk as needed and enjoy!

Notes:

* Using frozen fruit in smoothies eliminates the need for using ice, makes the smoothies creamier and thicker. If you don't have frozen fruit on hand, you can always use fresh.

* To cook the beetroot, you can either roast or pressure cook. After trying both methods, I have settled to roasting beets as I love how it makes it silky and smooth. Also, the color and flavor do not leach into the water when roasting.

* How to Roast Beets? - Cut of the stalk portion, wrap in aluminum foil, place in a 400 degree oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool, rub with fingers to remove peel. Slice/Dice and use.

* There is no sugar added to this smoothie, as the natural sweetness of the beets and blueberry is enough to sweeten the smoothie.

* Greek yogurt makes this smoothie creamy and delicious, so don't omit.

Verdict: This is by far the most vibrant colored smoothie I have ever made or had. Look at the color on that thing. My son even asked me if that was a Dora smoothie - matches the colors that Dora wears. Isn't that cute..Funny what kids can correlate. But seriously, this smoothie tastes awesome - earthy, creamy and full of blueberry goodness!