The change of seasons is always a wonderful time to welcome in the change of fruit and vegetables.
Our Sydney Summer fruit has extended into Autumn, with an abundance of lovely produce to play with, such as raspberries, blueberries and avocados. It’s Summer and Autumn all at once so why not make a smoothie bowl or two?
Smoothie bowls are very popular at the moment, as they are a quick and easy meal with great nutritional benefits. For inspiration, I like to wander down to my local grocer, Figtree Greengrocer, to explore the seasonal produce fresh from the markets. At Figtree I can create just about any type of meal, from a quick healthy snack, or a slow cooked casserole to a gourmet cheese platter loaded with special treats to share with friends.
Today’s three recipes are deliciously simple to make, some a little more indulgent than others, but all designed to make you feel healthy on the inside and outside. Experiment with your toppings to create your own signature flavour sensations.
Triple Berry Smoothie Bowl
This smoothie bowl is a healthy way to start the day, sprinkled with the goodness of chia seeds and coconut shavings. As they say “eat the rainbow”.
Serves 2
Ingredients
250g frozen strawberries
1 banana
2 tablespoons plain Greek yoghurt
½ cup almond milk
Topping
2 tablespoons blackberries
2 tablespoons baby kiwifruit, cut in half
2 tablespoons raspberries
2 tablespoons frozen blueberries
1 tablespoon pistachios, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon black chia seeds
1 tablespoon unsweetened coconut flakes
1 passionfruit, pulped
Method
1. Blend strawberries, frozen banana, yoghurt and almond milk in a blender for 1 – 2 minutes until smooth.
2. Pour smoothie into a bowl.
3. For the topping: layer fruit into rows.
4. Sprinkle with pistachios, chia seeds, coconut flakes and drizzle passionfruit pulp.
Banana, Passionfruit and Coconut Smoothie Bowl
The sweet banana and coconut flavours in this healthy little bowl will transport you to the tropics in no time.
Serves 2
Ingredients
½ cup ice cubes
1 large banana
1 passionfruit, pulped
1 cup coconut milk
1 – 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
Topping
1 teaspoon coconut flakes
1 tablespoon raw almonds, chopped
1 passionfruit, pulped
Method
1. Blend all ingredients in a blender for 1–2 minutes until smooth.
2. Pour smoothie into a bowl.
3. For the topping: Sprinkle with coconut, almonds and drizzle with passionfruit pulp.
Cacoa Avocado Smoothie Bowl
Don’t be put off by the avocado, as it creates a creamy and luscious texture. It is the perfect afternoon treat for teenagers who like a sugar hit after school and it is bursting with healthy vitamins and minerals. Our resident teenager describes this as the yummiest chocolate cake batter ever.
Serves 2
Ingredients
½ cup ice cubes
½ avocado, peeled and pitted
2 tablespoons raw cacoa
1 teaspoon almond meal
1 tablespoon rolled oats
4 medjool dates
½ small banana
1 cup milk
Topping
½ small banana, sliced
Coconut flakes
1 teaspoon honey
½ fig
Method
1. Blend all ingredients in a blender for 1–2 minutes until smooth.
2. Pour smoothie into a bowl.
3. For the topping: Add sliced banana, coconut and drizzle with honey.
For a healthy heart, remember to keep eating your fruit and veggies every day.
