Triple Red Berry Blast

Triple Red Berry Blast (ID: 28)

Description
A powerful antioxidant-rich smoothie combining three red berries—strawberries, raspberries, and goji berries—enhanced with pure pomegranate juice to create an intensely nutritious ruby-red elixir designed to combat free radicals and support overall cellular health.

Yield
16 oz (473 ml) - One serving

Preparation Time
7 minutes (including goji berry soaking time)

Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
- 3/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 2 tablespoons dried goji berries
- 1/2 cup pure pomegranate juice (100% juice, not from concentrate)
- 1/2 cup filtered water
- 1/2 small banana (for creaminess without overwhelming berry flavors)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, depending on berry sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- 4-5 ice cubes (omit if using frozen berries)

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

Instructions
1. Place dried goji berries in a small bowl and cover with warm water. Let soak for 5 minutes to soften, then drain well.
2. Add pomegranate juice and water to the blender first.
3. Add strawberries, raspberries, soaked and drained goji berries, banana, ground flaxseed, lemon juice, honey (if using), vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Add ice cubes if using fresh berries.
5. Blend on medium speed for 30 seconds, then high speed for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth.
6. If too thick, add additional water 1 tablespoon at a time; if too thin, add a few more berries or ice cubes.

Nutritional Information (approximate)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 14g
- Fat: 3g
- Antioxidants: Extremely high
- Vitamin C: 130mg
- Iron: 2.5mg

Benefits
- Exceptional source of diverse polyphenols and anthocyanins from four different berry sources
- Contains potent antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and support cellular repair
- Provides vitamin C for immune support and collagen synthesis
- Delivers ellagic acid from raspberries that supports detoxification pathways
- Offers omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed for anti-inflammatory benefits
- Supports cardiovascular health through pomegranate's nitric oxide effects

Variations
- For extra antioxidants: Add 1/2 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
- For protein boost: Add 1 scoop unflavored or vanilla protein powder
- For anti-inflammatory enhancement: Add 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric and a pinch of black pepper
- For improved absorption: Add 1 teaspoon coconut oil or MCT oil

Serving Suggestion
Serve in a clear glass to showcase the vibrant ruby-red color, garnished with a few fresh berries on top. This potent antioxidant smoothie is ideal as part of a detoxification program or regular wellness routine. Best consumed fresh when antioxidants are at peak potency. Can be prepared as part of a meal prep routine and stored in small portions in the freezer, then thawed slightly before consuming. Perfect for athletes in training, those recovering from illness, or anyone seeking intense nutritional support.

Berry-Based Smoothies