Watermelon Berry Smoothie

Watermelon Berry Smoothie

This vibrant and refreshing smoothie is perfect for a hot day or a healthy snack. It combines the natural sweetness of watermelon with the tartness of fresh berries for a delightful taste.

Yields: 1 large serving or 2 smaller servings Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (chilled is best)
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled
• 1/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
• 1/2 – 1 cup ice cubes (adjust based on desired thickness and temperature of fruit)
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (optional, for a brighter flavor)
• 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste if watermelon isn’t sweet enough)
• A few fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish and added freshness)
• Watermelon wedge, strawberry, or raspberries for garnish (as shown in image)

Equipment:

• Blender

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fruit: If using fresh watermelon, cut it into 1-inch cubes and remove any visible seeds (though seedless is preferred). Hull the strawberries.
2. Combine ingredients in blender: Add the diced watermelon, strawberries, raspberries, lime juice (if using), and honey/maple syrup (if using) to your blender.
3. Add ice: Start with 1/2 cup of ice cubes. You can always add more if you prefer a thicker or colder smoothie.
4. Blend until smooth: Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of cold water or a splash of orange juice and blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust: Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed. You can add more lime juice for a zing, or a bit more honey/maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
6. Pour and serve: Pour the smoothie into a tall glass.
7. Garnish: Garnish with a fresh watermelon wedge, a whole strawberry, or a few raspberries on the rim of the glass, as depicted in the image. A few fresh mint leaves can also add a nice touch.

Tips for Success:

• Chilled Watermelon: Using chilled watermelon will result in a colder, less diluted smoothie, potentially requiring less ice.
• Frozen Berries: Using frozen strawberries and raspberries can eliminate the need for a lot of ice, making the smoothie thicker and more concentrated in flavor.
• Sweetness: The sweetness of your smoothie will largely depend on the ripeness of your watermelon and berries. Taste before adding extra sweeteners.
• Variations:
  • Tropical Twist: Add 1/4 cup of frozen mango or pineapple for a tropical flair.
  • Creamy Version: For a creamier smoothie, add 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt or a small ripe banana.
  • Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra nutritional boost.
  • Herbal Notes: A few sprigs of fresh basil can also complement the watermelon beautifully.