Orange Juice Goji Berries Smoothie Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Orange Juice Goji Berries Smoothie with this easy baking recipe. Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, this refreshing blend combines tangy citrus with superfood goji berries for a nutrient-dense breakfast or energizing snack. Perfect for beginners looking to incorporate superfoods into their diet!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

0 mins

Serves:

2 smoothies

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">500ml freshly squeezed orange juice (about 4-5 oranges)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">60g dried goji berries, soaked in water for 10 minutes and drained</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 frozen banana, sliced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">250g plain Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free option)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, depending on sweetness of oranges)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon orange zest</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">120g ice cubes</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 210 calories

🥑 Fat: 1 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 0 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 48 g

🍭 Sugar: 38 g

🍗 Protein: 5 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 5 mg

🧂 Sodium: 10 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">High-speed blender</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Citrus juicer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Microplane or zester</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Begin by preparing your fresh orange juice. Wash and halve the oranges, then juice them using a citrus juicer until you have 500ml of juice. Fresh juice makes a significant difference in flavor compared to store-bought, as it contains more vibrant notes and natural enzymes. Strain the juice if you prefer a pulp-free smoothie.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Place your dried goji berries in a small bowl and cover with warm (not hot) water for 10 minutes. This rehydration process softens the berries and makes them easier to blend, while also preserving their delicate nutrients that might be damaged by excessive heat.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Drain the goji berries well, discarding the soaking liquid. The berries should now be plump and slightly soft to the touch. If they still seem very firm, allow them to soak for an additional 5 minutes.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Add the fresh orange juice, soaked goji berries, frozen banana slices, Greek yogurt, and ice cubes to your blender. The frozen banana adds creaminess and natural sweetness while helping achieve that perfect smoothie consistency without diluting the flavors.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Add the orange zest, which contains the fruit's essential oils and provides a concentrated burst of citrus flavor. If using, add the honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract as well. The amount of sweetener needed depends on the natural sweetness of your oranges and personal preference.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds until completely smooth and no pieces of goji berries remain. The high-speed action helps break down the berry skins completely, resulting in a silky texture. Pause to scrape down the sides if needed to ensure everything is incorporated evenly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Taste your smoothie and adjust sweetness if needed. For a thicker smoothie, add more ice or frozen banana; for a thinner consistency, add a splash more orange juice or a little water. The perfect smoothie should be easily sippable but thick enough to hold a straw upright.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Pour immediately into chilled glasses for the most refreshing experience. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of additional dried goji berries, a twist of orange peel, or a small slice of orange on the rim. Serve immediately to enjoy maximum nutritional benefits and optimal texture.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Orange Juice Goji Berries Smoothie?

This refreshing smoothie combines freshly squeezed orange juice, dried goji berries, frozen banana, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup (optional), orange zest, ice cubes, and vanilla extract. The recipe offers a dairy-free option by substituting coconut yogurt.

How to cook Orange Juice Goji Berries Smoothie at home?

Learn how to cook Orange Juice Goji Berries Smoothie by first soaking goji berries in warm water. Then simply combine fresh orange juice, the soaked berries, frozen banana, yogurt, zest, ice and optional sweetener in a high-speed blender until smooth. No actual cooking required - it's a raw, vitamin-packed beverage ready in just 10 minutes!

Are goji berries worth adding to smoothies and what benefits do they provide?

Absolutely! Goji berries add a sweet-tart flavour while delivering impressive nutritional benefits. They're packed with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, iron, and amino acids. Their unique compounds support immune health, improve eye function, and may help stabilise blood sugar levels in smoothies.

Can I make this smoothie without a high-powered blender?

Yes, though you'll need to adjust the preparation. Soak the goji berries longer (15-20 minutes) and blend in batches, starting with berries and liquid ingredients first. You might need to strain the final mixture if your blender can't fully break down the berry skins.

How can I increase the protein content in fruit smoothies without affecting taste?

Boost protein while maintaining the bright citrus flavour by adding a scoop of unflavoured collagen peptides or vanilla protein powder. Greek yogurt already provides good protein, but you could increase the amount or add a tablespoon of nut butter or hemp seeds for plant-based options.

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