Antioxidant Berry Green Tea Smoothie
Start your day on a refreshing and healthy note with this Antioxidant Berry Green Tea Smoothie! This vibrant drink combines the powerful antioxidants of green tea with the vibrant flavors of mixed berries, providing not only a delicious taste but also a plethora of health benefits. The addition of ground flax seeds adds essential omega-3 fatty acids, while oat bran contributes extra fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Creamy low-fat vanilla yogurt adds a rich texture and dose of protein. Perfect for busy mornings or a quick snack, this smoothie is not only nutritious but also a hit with kids. Whether you're rushing out the door or enjoying a calm moment at home, this smoothie is your go-to tasty treat!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
1/4 cup (plus more as needed)
green tea bag
1 (steeped in boiling water)
ground flax seeds
2 tablespoons (or use flax seed oil)
oat bran
2 tablespoons (or use wheat germ)
frozen mixed berries
1 1/2 cups (fresh or frozen)
low-fat vanilla yogurt
6 ounces (use Greek yogurt for extra protein)
cranberry juice
1/4 cup (or use apple juice)
honey
to taste (add as desired)
Instructions
1
In a microwave-safe container, heat 1/4 cup of water on high until it reaches a rolling boil, approximately 45-60 seconds.
2
Once boiling, carefully add the green tea bag and allow it to steep for 3 minutes before removing and discarding the tea bag.
3
In a blender or food processor, combine the ground flax seeds, oat bran, frozen mixed berries, low-fat vanilla yogurt, and cranberry or apple juice. Blend the mixture on high until smooth and creamy.
4
Pour in the prepared green tea and blend again until fully incorporated, ensuring the smoothie is creamy and well-mixed.
5
If the consistency is too thick, add additional water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired texture. Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness with honey as desired.
6
Serve immediately for the best flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Antioxidant Berry Green Tea Smoothie?
It is a refreshing and healthy drink that combines the powerful antioxidants of green tea with mixed berries, flax seeds, and oat bran.
What are the main ingredients for this smoothie?
The main ingredients include green tea, mixed berries, ground flax seeds, oat bran, low-fat vanilla yogurt, and cranberry or apple juice.
How do I prepare the green tea for the smoothie?
Boil 1/4 cup of water, steep one green tea bag for 3 minutes, then remove the bag before adding the tea to the mixture.
Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use either fresh or frozen mixed berries depending on your preference.
What can I substitute for ground flax seeds?
You can use flax seed oil as an alternative to ground flax seeds.
What is a good substitute for oat bran?
Wheat germ can be used as a substitute for oat bran in this recipe.
What kind of yogurt should I use?
The recipe suggests low-fat vanilla yogurt, but Greek yogurt is also a great option for extra protein.
Is this smoothie kid-friendly?
Yes, this smoothie is a nutritious hit with kids due to its vibrant colors and sweet berry flavor.
What juice works best in this recipe?
You can use either cranberry juice or apple juice as the liquid base for the smoothie.
How do I sweeten the smoothie?
You can adjust the sweetness by adding honey to taste.
What are the health benefits of this smoothie?
It provides antioxidants, essential omega-3 fatty acids, extra fiber, and a good dose of protein.
Does this smoothie contain fiber?
Yes, fiber is provided by the oat bran and the mixed berries to keep you feeling full.
How much water is needed to steep the tea?
You need 1/4 cup of water, plus more as needed to adjust the final consistency.
How long should the tea steep?
The green tea bag should steep in boiling water for approximately 3 minutes.
What if the smoothie is too thick?
If the consistency is too thick, add additional water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired texture.
Can I make this in a food processor?
Yes, if you do not have a blender, a food processor can be used to combine the ingredients.
How many tea bags do I need?
One green tea bag is sufficient for this single recipe.
When should I serve this smoothie?
For the best flavor and nutritional value, it is recommended to serve the smoothie immediately.
How long do I boil the water?
Heat 1/4 cup of water on high for approximately 45-60 seconds until it reaches a rolling boil.
Does this smoothie contain omega-3?
Yes, the ground flax seeds (or flax seed oil) provide essential omega-3 fatty acids.
Is this a quick breakfast option?
Yes, it is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and nutritious meal.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of low-fat vanilla?
Yes, using Greek yogurt is a great way to add extra protein to your smoothie.
What provides the antioxidants?
The antioxidants come primarily from the green tea and the mixed berries.
How much yogurt is required?
The recipe calls for 6 ounces of low-fat vanilla yogurt.
What quantity of berries is needed?
You will need 1 1/2 cups of frozen or fresh mixed berries.
Can I use honey as a sweetener?
Yes, honey can be added to the blender to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
What are the steps to blend the smoothie?
Blend the flax seeds, bran, berries, yogurt, and juice first, then add the tea and blend again.
What is the role of oat bran?
Oat bran adds dietary fiber, which helps with satiety and digestion.
Can I use flax seed oil instead of ground seeds?
Yes, flax seed oil is a suitable preparation alternative mentioned in the recipe.
What is the final texture like?
The final result should be a smooth, creamy, and vibrant purple or red drink.