This super refreshing, immune-boosting Watermelon Smoothie is rich in antioxidants and can be made vegan-friendly.
Watermelon is a popular, refreshing summer treat enjoyed by any age. However, I feel like we have all overlooked or just didn’t know the ridiculous health benefits this juicy fruit has. ‘
Nothing is as delicious as a refreshing, cool drink on a sweltering hot day. I lived in Manhattan my whole life, and the summers there are AWFUL! In NYC, you usually walk everywhere. The summer temps can reach about 90 degrees, there is no breeze, and heat is just coming off the sidewalks and buildings. The only relief you get is when you walk past a store and get hit with a breeze from the AC through the open door until you discover a Watermelon Smoothie or juice.
It sincerely is like a breath of fresh air. Aside from that this smoothie is super simple to make and looks very pretty.
Is watermelon smoothie healthy?
YES! I love it when I can confidently say that one of my recipes is super healthy and not just good for your soul. This Watermelon Smoothie is packed with antioxidants and has vitamin C, which improves your immune system. Speaking of, did you know that a serving of strawberries has more vitamin C than an orange? Although not the star, because watermelon dominates this drink, we get even more nutrients by adding a cup of strawberries.
This smoothie is gluten free, vegetarian, keto, whole 30 (debatable), and can be made vegan. By replacing the greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, like almond or coconut milk yogurt, and the honey with agave.
What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are found in most plants and are beneficial to the body by neutralizing and protecting from free radicals. While you can take antioxidants in supplements, they work better when ingested from foods containing them. There are many types of antioxidants, such as Lycopene. Lycopene may reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease and the highest amount found is found in watermelon, more than any other fresh fruit.
How to make ahead and store?
You can make your smoothie the night before and store it in the fridge. Be sure to enjoy it within 48 hours. You can also put all of the ingredients in an airtight blender cup and blend it when you are ready to enjoy, within three days.
Serving Suggestions
This smoothie can be enjoyed at any time of day all year round. Watermelon is always growing somewhere, so even if it is not local, you will be able to find it imported at the grocery store.
To keep up with the vegan, gluten-free meal, serve this smoothie for breakfast with Vegan Banana Bread or balance out the light, frothiness with something delectable like Crustless Quiche .
Host a great summer soiree and include the following on your menu:
Thai Veggie Burger or Cajun Burger with Sweet Potato Buns with Air-Fryer Potato Chips , Fried Pickles, No Mayo Potato Salad and Grilled Corn on the Cobb. Serve your Watermelon Smoothie as a refreshing beverage, dessert, or even cocktail!
Ingredients
- 3 cups 1-inch diced frozen watermelon cubes
- 1 cup frozen strawberries
- 1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative
- 1/2 tablespoon honey or vegan sweetener
- 1/2 cup water or unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup packed fresh mint leaves optional
- Mint sprig or basil leaf optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine watermelon, strawberries, yogurt, honey, water (or almond milk), and mint in a blender.
- Blend until smooth, adding more liquid if necessary to achieve desired consistency.
- Adjust sweetness to taste, if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with a sprig of mint or basil, if using.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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