Raspberry Peach Melba

The Raspberry Peach Melba smoothie is an elegant blend inspired by the classic dessert created by legendary French chef Auguste Escoffier in the late 1800s.
This vibrant creation combines the sweet succulence of ripe peaches with the bright tartness of raspberries, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that's enhanced with hints of vanilla for a truly dessert-like experience in smoothie form.
Designed to deliver exceptional taste alongside valuable nutrition, this smoothie transforms an indulgent dessert concept into a nourishing beverage that can be enjoyed any time of day without guilt.
Whether savored as a nutritious breakfast, refreshing snack, or healthier dessert alternative, the Raspberry Peach Melba smoothie offers a sophisticated flavor combination that feels indulgent while supporting your wellness goals.


- Rich in vitamin C from both peaches and raspberries for immune support
- Contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage and support skin health
- Provides fiber for digestive health and sustained energy
- Features vitamin A from peaches which supports eye and skin health
- Offers protein from yogurt that promotes satiety and muscle maintenance


1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
1 large ripe peach, pitted and sliced (or 1 cup frozen peach slices)
3/4 cup vanilla yogurt (Greek or plant-based)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon honey (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup almond milk or regular milk
1 tablespoon almond slivers (optional)
Ice cubes (if using fresh fruit)


Raspberries: High in antioxidants, particularly ellagic acid and anthocyanins. Provide significant fiber, including soluble fiber that supports gut health. Contain vitamin C for immune function and skin health. Offer manganese for metabolism and bone formation. Low glycemic impact makes them suitable for blood sugar management.
Peaches: Rich in vitamins A and C which support immune function and skin health. Contain potassium for heart health and proper muscle function. Provide antioxidants including lutein for eye health. Offer natural sweetness with moderate fiber content. Support hydration due to high water content.
Vanilla Yogurt: Supplies protein for muscle maintenance and satiety. Contains probiotics that support gut health and immune function. Provides calcium and phosphorus for bone health. Offers creaminess without excessive calories. Adds a touch of sweetness that complements the fruit.
Vanilla Extract: Contains small amounts of antioxidants. May help reduce anxiety through its calming aroma. Enhances the perception of sweetness, allowing for less added sugar. Complements both peach and raspberry flavors beautifully. Adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Honey: Provides natural sweetness with antimicrobial properties. Contains antioxidants including flavonoids and phenolic acids. Offers small amounts of vitamins and minerals. Has a lower glycemic impact than refined sugar. Enhances the natural flavors of the fruits.
Almond/Regular Milk: Almond milk provides vitamin E and is low in calories. Regular milk offers additional protein and B vitamins. Both add creaminess and help achieve proper smoothie consistency. Often fortified with calcium and vitamin D for bone health. Helps blend all ingredients into a smooth, cohesive beverage.
Almond Slivers: Provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Contain vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. Offer plant-based protein and fiber. Rich in magnesium which supports energy production. Add a pleasant textural contrast and subtle nutty flavor.


Calories: Approximately 280
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 8g
Fat: 6g (primarily healthy unsaturated fats)
Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Calcium, Potassium, Manganese
Antioxidants: Anthocyanins, ellagic acid, lutein, vitamin E


- High-speed blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife (for fresh peach)
- Serving glasses


1. If using a fresh peach, wash, pit, and slice it into chunks.
2. Add milk to the blender first.
3. Add yogurt, raspberries, peach slices, vanilla extract, and honey.
4. Add ice if using fresh fruit.
5. Blend on low speed first, then increase to high until smooth and creamy (about 30-45 seconds).
6. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk; if too thin, add more frozen fruit or ice.
7. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more honey.
8. For a smoother texture, strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove raspberry seeds (optional).

Total preparation time: 5-7 minutes


- Serve in a chilled glass garnished with a fresh raspberry and a thin peach slice
- Top with a sprinkle of almond slivers for texture and visual appeal
- For a dessert-like presentation, add a small dollop of yogurt on top
- Serve alongside almond biscotti for a complete afternoon treat
- Pour into a bowl and top with granola for a more substantial breakfast option


- Best consumed immediately after preparation for optimal freshness and nutrition
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours
- Separation may occur during storage; shake or re-blend before consuming
- The color may darken slightly due to oxidation, but nutrition is minimally affected
- Not recommended for freezing as the texture changes significantly when thawed


Protein boost: Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder or 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt
Nutty variation: Add 1 tablespoon of almond butter for richness and additional protein
Vegan version: Use plant-based yogurt and sweetener of choice instead of honey
Extra fiber: Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed
Summer stone fruit twist: Substitute half the peach with apricot or nectarine
Decadent dessert option: Add 1 tablespoon of white chocolate chips and a sprinkle of vanilla granola


- Perfect as a nutritious breakfast to start your day with vitamin-rich fruits
- Excellent as a post-workout recovery option with its balance of carbs and protein
- Great as an afternoon snack when energy typically dips
- Ideal during peach season when stone fruits are at their peak flavor
- Wonderful as a healthier dessert alternative to satisfy sweet cravings


Skin health enhancement: The combination of vitamins A and C from peaches and raspberries supports collagen production and overall skin health. These nutrients, along with antioxidants like anthocyanins and ellagic acid, help protect skin cells from damage caused by environmental factors and stress. Regular consumption may contribute to a clearer, more radiant complexion and potentially slow age-related skin changes.
Immune system support: Both raspberries and peaches are excellent sources of vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in immune cell function. One serving of this smoothie provides a significant portion of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, helping strengthen the body's natural defenses against seasonal illnesses and infections. The additional antioxidants further support immune function through their anti-inflammatory effects.
Digestive wellness: With approximately 8g of fiber per serving, this smoothie supports digestive health in multiple ways. The soluble fiber from fruits helps feed beneficial gut bacteria, while the probiotics in yogurt introduce beneficial bacteria directly into the digestive system. This combination supports regular elimination, potentially reduces bloating, and contributes to overall gut health.
Sustained energy release: The balance of natural sugars from fruits, protein from yogurt, and fiber creates a smoothie that digests gradually, providing steady energy without sharp blood sugar spikes and subsequent crashes. This makes it an excellent choice for busy mornings or before periods of physical or mental activity when sustained energy is required.
Hydration support: Both peaches and raspberries have high water content, contributing to your daily hydration needs. Proper hydration supports numerous bodily functions including circulation, temperature regulation, and nutrient transport. The electrolytes from the fruits and milk further enhance the hydrating effects of this smoothie.
Heart health promotion: The potassium from peaches supports healthy blood pressure, while the antioxidants in raspberries may help reduce inflammation in blood vessels. The optional almond slivers provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Together, these elements contribute to cardiovascular wellness when consumed as part of a balanced diet.


- Those with raspberry or peach allergies should substitute with tolerated fruits
- Individuals with nut allergies should omit the almond slivers and use an appropriate milk alternative
- People with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar response to the natural fruit sugars
- Those with sensitive digestion may want to strain out the raspberry seeds
- Individuals on specific medications should check for interactions with grapefruit/citrus (though this is rare with peaches)


- For the most flavorful smoothie, ensure peaches are fully ripe with a strong fragrance and slight give when gently pressed
- During off-season, frozen peaches often have better flavor than fresh shipped varieties
- A high-speed blender works best to fully incorporate raspberry seeds, but straining is an option for ultra-smoothness
- When using frozen fruit, allow it to thaw slightly (about 5 minutes) for easier blending
- For the most authentic "Peach Melba" flavor, make sure the vanilla notes are prominent


Spring Version: Early spring may not have the best peaches, so consider using frozen peaches with fresh spring strawberries substituting for some of the raspberries. Add 1 tablespoon of fresh mint leaves for brightness and a spring feel.

Summer Version: Use perfectly ripe, local peaches at their peak sweetness. Allow the natural flavors to shine with minimal honey. Add 1/4 cup of fresh seasonal berries like blackberries or blueberries for additional complexity. Serve over extra ice for a more refreshing experience.

Fall Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of nutmeg to add warming notes that complement the peach. Consider using frozen summer peaches and raspberries with a slightly richer base by adding 1 tablespoon of almond butter.

Winter Version: Use frozen summer fruit with a warming twist by adding 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of cardamom. Increase the vanilla slightly and consider using a touch more honey for extra sweetness during the cold months.


Immunity Boost: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed for additional omega-3s, and use manuka honey instead of regular honey. Consider adding 1/4 cup of orange segments for extra vitamin C.

Digestive Support: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, use Greek yogurt with active cultures, include 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, and consider adding 1 teaspoon of food-grade rose water which pairs beautifully with the peach and raspberry.

Skin Glow Enhancer: Add 1 tablespoon of collagen peptides, include 1/4 avocado for healthy fats that support skin moisture, and use coconut water instead of some of the milk for additional hydration benefits.

Anti-Inflammatory Focus: Add 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric with a pinch of black pepper, use tart cherries in place of some of the raspberries, and include 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed for omega-3 fatty acids.

Pregnancy Support: Increase the yogurt to 1 cup for additional calcium and protein, add 1 tablespoon of wheat germ for folate, and include a small handful of spinach (which won't affect the flavor but adds important nutrients for pregnancy).


Q: What is the origin of Peach Melba that inspired this smoothie?
A: Peach Melba is a classic dessert created in the 1890s by the legendary French chef Auguste Escoffier at the Savoy Hotel in London. He created it to honor Australian opera singer Nellie Melba. The original dessert consists of poached peaches served with raspberry sauce over vanilla ice cream. This smoothie captures the essential flavor components of this famous dessert—peaches, raspberries, and vanilla—but transforms them into a nutritious beverage that can be enjoyed any time of day while providing substantial health benefits.

Q: How do I select the best peaches for this smoothie?
A: Selecting perfect peaches can significantly enhance the flavor of this smoothie:
• Fragrance: Ripe peaches should have a sweet, distinctly peachy aroma at room temperature
• Feel: Look for peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren't mushy
• Color: The background color should be golden or creamy yellow, not green (the red blush is not an indicator of ripeness)
• Season: Local peaches in season (typically summer) will have superior flavor to shipped varieties
• Ripening: If your peaches are firm, ripen them at room temperature in a paper bag for 1-2 days
If fresh, ripe peaches aren't available, high-quality frozen peach slices are an excellent alternative and often provide better flavor than off-season fresh peaches. They also add a frosty thickness to the smoothie without diluting it with ice.

Q: Can I make this smoothie if I don't have fresh raspberries?
A: Absolutely! Here are several options:
1. Frozen raspberries work perfectly and are often more economical. They're typically frozen at peak ripeness, preserving both flavor and nutrition.
2. Raspberry preserves can work in a pinch—use 2-3 tablespoons of all-fruit raspberry preserves or jam (look for varieties without added sugar).
3. Freeze-dried raspberries can be rehydrated in warm water for 5-10 minutes, then used as fresh (use about 1/2 cup freeze-dried to replace 1 cup fresh).
4. Other berries can substitute partially or completely—strawberries, blackberries, or mixed berries will all work with the peach and vanilla flavor profile, though the color and specific taste will vary.
The smoothie will still capture the essence of Peach Melba with any of these adaptations, as the combination of stone fruit, berry, and vanilla is what creates the classic flavor profile.

Q: Will my smoothie have raspberry seeds in it?
A: Yes, unless you take steps to remove them. Raspberry seeds are quite small but numerous and can create a slightly gritty texture in the finished smoothie. If you prefer a completely smooth texture, you have two options:
1. Strain after blending: Pour the blended smoothie through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing gently with a spoon to extract all the liquid while leaving the seeds behind.
2. Strain before blending: Puree the raspberries with a little liquid, then strain this mixture before adding it to the blender with the remaining ingredients.
The seeds do contain fiber and some nutrients, so keeping them is a nutritional advantage if the texture doesn't bother you. High-powered blenders like Vitamix or Blendtec will break down the seeds more thoroughly than standard blenders, resulting in a smoother texture even with the seeds included.

Q: Is this smoothie suitable for children?
A: This smoothie is particularly well-suited for children for several reasons:
• The flavor profile is naturally sweet and appealing to most children
• The peach-raspberry combination offers familiar fruit flavors without being too exotic
• It provides excellent nutrition including vitamins A and C, calcium, and fiber
• The vibrant color is visually appealing
• The ingredient list is simple and recognizable
For younger children, you might consider straining out the raspberry seeds for easier drinking. You can also adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed. This smoothie offers a great way to introduce children to nutritious foods in a format that feels like a treat. The natural sweetness usually means no additional sweetener is needed, especially if the peaches are perfectly ripe.