Smoothie of the Month: Blueberry and Chia Seed

blueberry smoothie

Here is a simple nutritious smoothie for getting back into a post-vacation routine. Although it tastes like summer and is delicious when made with fresh blueberries, the smoothie can be prepared well into the fall with frozen berries of any kind.

Famous for their endurance-supporting qualities, chia seeds also give the smoothie an Omega-3 boost and provide fiber and protein that can help keep sippers satisfied. Since the seeds thicken when soaked, they also add body and a creamy texture to the smoothie once blended. The coconut butter supplies a touch of richness and also a hint of sweet flavor that tastes great with blueberries and vanilla.

Blueberry and Chia Seed Smoothie

Make 1 large or 2 small smoothies
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1½ cups  almond milk, divided
1 cup blueberries
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch cinnamon
1 heaping tablespoon coconut butter or coconut oil
Raw honey, to taste

Place chia seeds in a cup or jar, add ½ cup almond milk and stir thoroughly to combine. Set aside for 10 minutes or store in the fridge overnight (the mix will keep up to 4 days in the fridge). Place in an upright blender with remaining ingredients and blend until smooth, adding honey to taste.

Amy Chaplin is a chef and recipe developer in New York City. Her cookbook At Home in the Whole Food Kitchen is available this fall. She blogs at Coconut & Quinoa.

Photo by Stephen Johnson

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