Pin it
This lemon blueberry avocado smoothie is such a delicious, easy, and filling breakfast idea! Touches of lemon zest, vanilla, and cinnamon add so much incredible flavor, while avocado and yogurt make the texture super creamy. The vibrant color and refreshing taste make this perfect for busy mornings when you need something nutritious that still feels like a treat.
I created this smoothie one morning when I was craving something bright and refreshing but still filling. My family was skeptical about avocado in a smoothie until they tasted it they now request this weekly as a breakfast treat or afternoon pick me up.
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk: provides the perfect liquid base without adding unnecessary sugars try refrigerating overnight for an extra cold smoothie
- 2 cups blueberries: fresh or frozen offer natural sweetness and powerful antioxidants choose wild blueberries when possible for maximum nutrition
- 1/2 cup avocado chunks: creates that incredible creaminess and adds healthy fats look for perfectly ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: adds protein and tanginess select a high quality full fat variety for best texture
- 1 lemon: zest from whole lemon and juice from half brings brightness and depth use organic when possible for best flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: enhances all the other flavors use pure extract not imitation for best results
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds: add omega 3s and help thicken the smoothie ensure these are fresh for best nutrition
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: adds warmth that balances the bright flavors try Ceylon cinnamon for a more delicate touch
- Optional protein powder: boosts protein content choose unflavored or vanilla varieties that complement the existing flavors
- Ice: optional for achieving desired temperature especially when using fresh instead of frozen ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon:
- Thoroughly wash and dry one whole lemon. Using a microplane zester or the fine side of a box grater carefully remove the entire outer zest being careful to avoid the bitter white pith beneath. Cut the lemon in half and juice only one half reserving the other half for another use or additional flavor if desired after tasting.
- Blend the Base:
- Pour the almond milk into your blender first which helps prevent ingredients from sticking to the bottom. Add the avocado chunks Greek yogurt lemon zest and lemon juice. This creates a creamy base before adding the other ingredients which ensures a smooth final texture.
- Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Add the blueberries chia seeds vanilla extract cinnamon and optional protein powder to the blender. If using fresh ingredients rather than frozen consider adding a handful of ice at this stage to achieve the proper cold temperature and thickness.
- Perfect the Texture:
- Blend on high speed for 60 to 90 seconds stopping once to scrape down the sides if necessary. The smoothie should be completely smooth with no visible pieces of avocado or blueberry. If the consistency is too thick add a splash more almond milk. If too thin add more frozen blueberries or ice until reaching your desired texture.
Pin it
I absolutely love the way the lemon zest brightens this smoothie. The first time I made this for my daughter she asked what made it taste so special and I showed her how to zest a lemon. Now its our special morning ritual to zest the lemon together when making our favorite smoothie.
Make Ahead Magic
This smoothie is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare all the ingredients in advance by creating smoothie packs. Simply portion the blueberries avocado chunks and measured chia seeds in freezer bags or containers. When ready to make just dump the pack into the blender add the fresh ingredients like lemon yogurt and milk and blend. This approach saves precious morning time while still giving you a freshly blended smoothie.
Nutritional Powerhouse
The combination of ingredients in this smoothie creates a nutritional symphony. Blueberries are famous for their antioxidant properties which help combat inflammation. The avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats that support brain health and nutrient absorption. Greek yogurt contributes protein and probiotics for gut health while chia seeds add omega 3 fatty acids and additional protein. Even the lemon zest contains beneficial compounds called limonoids that have been studied for their health protecting properties. This smoothie is truly beauty and wellness in a glass.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
While this smoothie is satisfying on its own pairing it with complementary foods creates a complete meal. Try serving alongside a piece of whole grain toast with a thin layer of almond butter for additional protein and complex carbohydrates. For a special weekend breakfast pair with a small serving of overnight oats topped with extra blueberries. The smoothie also works beautifully as an afternoon snack alongside a small handful of walnuts or almonds for additional protein and crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make this smoothie vegan?
To make it vegan, simply swap the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and ensure your protein powder, if used, is vegan-friendly.
- → Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, frozen blueberries work perfectly and will also help to keep your smoothie cold. Adjust the amount of ice if using frozen fruit.
- → What can I use instead of almond milk?
You can replace almond milk with any unsweetened plant-based milk like oat, soy, or coconut milk. Regular dairy milk also works.
- → How can I store leftover smoothie?
Store leftover smoothie in the fridge for 1-2 days in a sealed jar. Shake well before drinking. You can also freeze it in portions and thaw before use.
- → Can I add extra greens to this smoothie?
Yes, adding a handful of spinach is a great way to include more greens. It won’t significantly alter the flavor but may change the color slightly.
- → How can I increase the protein content?
Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder, such as an unflavored or vanilla option, or increase the amount of Greek yogurt used.