Goji Berry Energizer

Goji Berry Energizer (ID: 20)

Description
An energizing smoothie centered around antioxidant-rich goji berries, complemented with fresh orange and banana, and enhanced with a hint of metabolism-boosting cayenne for a natural, sustained energy lift without caffeine.

Yield
16 oz (473 ml) - One serving

Preparation Time
5 minutes (plus 5 minutes for soaking goji berries)

Ingredients
- 1/4 cup dried goji berries
- 1 medium orange, peeled and segmented
- 1 medium ripe banana
- 3/4 cup coconut water
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Pinch of black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)
- Very small pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon maca powder (optional, for additional energy)
- 4-5 ice cubes

Equipment
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for soaking goji berries
- Glass for serving

Instructions
1. Place goji berries in a small bowl and cover with warm water. Let soak for 5 minutes to soften, then drain well.
2. Peel and segment the orange, removing any seeds and excess white pith.
3. Add coconut water to the blender first.
4. Add soaked and drained goji berries, orange segments, banana, Greek yogurt, honey (if using), lemon juice, turmeric, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and maca powder (if using).
5. Add ice cubes.
6. Blend on low speed for 15 seconds to break down the goji berries.
7. Increase to medium speed for 30 seconds, then high speed for 45 seconds until completely smooth.
8. Pause and taste. Adjust sweetness or cayenne level if needed.

Nutritional Information (approximate)
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 8g
- Fat: 2g
- Vitamin C: 100mg
- Iron: 3mg
- Antioxidants: Very high

Benefits
- Contains a wide spectrum of antioxidants from goji berries for cellular protection
- Provides vitamin C from orange for immune support and natural energy
- Delivers potassium from banana for proper muscle function and electrolyte balance
- Offers gentle metabolism boost from cayenne pepper
- Includes anti-inflammatory compounds from turmeric
- Supports sustained energy release through balanced carbohydrates and protein

Variations
- For extra protein: Add 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- For omega-3 boost: Add 1 tablespoon hemp seeds
- For adaptogenic properties: Increase maca to 1 tablespoon or add 1/2 teaspoon ashwagandha
- For digestive boost: Add 1/2 inch piece fresh ginger

Serving Suggestion
Serve in a tall glass with an orange slice garnish. Best consumed in the morning or early afternoon for an energy boost. This smoothie is ideal before a workout, busy workday, or whenever you need sustained natural energy without caffeine. The natural sugars from fruit combined with protein and the metabolic enhancement from spices provide a gentle, crash-free energy lift. For maximum benefits, drink shortly after preparation when the enzymes and nutrients are most potent.

Berry-Based Smoothies