Have you been swept away or even tempted to try these vibrant bowls of nutritious ingredients, blended to a puree and garnished with pretty toppings?
I have been watching and researching them for quite some time and thought I had better give them a go.
I haven't been disappointed as they can be a light refreshing and nutritious start to your day.
However, I do believe if you are going to make smoothie bowls you need to use good quality ingredients that actually do benefit you and your wellbeing.
I have included four varieties that are a good starting point and, of course, you can mix and match flavours, textures and toppings to suit your tastes.
Photos: Simon Lambert
Green smoothie bowl
I love greens, and this smoothie will boost your body with essential nutrients, especially iron.
Makes 1 bowl
Ingredients
1 cup kale or spinach, stalks removed
1 cup raw apple juice
1 cup ice
½ avocado
½ tsp spirulina powder
4 fresh mint leaves
Squeeze lime juice (optional)
Method
Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until very smooth. Pour into your bowl and add your desired toppings.
Acai smoothie bowl
Acai berries derive from Brazil and have been consumed for centuries for health benefits such as boosting energy, improving mental function, containing essential fatty acids and even aiding weight loss!
I am using acai powder which can be expensive but I have found it a wonderful addition to my diet. It has a slightly sweet, slightly tart flavour and goes particularly well with red fruits, even beetroot.
Makes 1 bowl
Ingredients
1 large medjool date, pitted and cut in half
½ cup coconut milk
1 Tbsp chia seeds
½ cup fresh or frozen mixed berries
2 Tbsp acai powder
1-2 brazil nuts (optional)
Method
Blend all the ingredients together in a blender until very smooth. Pour into your bowl and top with more berries, toasted coconut and perhaps coconut yoghurt.
Berry and oats
This version of a smoothie bowl has the addition of oats which add more depth and texture and works great as a quick, tasty breakfast.
Makes 1 bowl
Ingredients
1 cup frozen or fresh berries
½ cup almond milk
1 frozen banana, roughly chopped
½ cup gluten free organic oats
¾ tsp beetroot powder (optional)
Drop vanilla extract
Honey or maple syrup to taste (optional)
Method
Place all the ingredients into a blender and blend until well combined and airy. Pour into your bowl and top with toasted oats, more berries and a little drizzle of honey if desired.
Cacao smoothie bowl
I am a sucker for anything chocolatey, and using raw cacao offers a great substitute and will satisfy your cravings. You can add berries, nuts or, as I have done, a little peanut butter to take this to the next level, and wow, what a truly heavenly way to start your day!
Makes 1 bowl
Ingredients
1 banana, frozen, cut into pieces
1 Tbsp raw cacao powder
1 cup almond or coconut milk
1 cup ice
1-2 tsp maple syrup
1-2 Tbsp peanut butter
Method
Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into your bowl and top with banana, chia seeds and perhaps a few berries. Or simply top with whatever tickles your fancy.
