Strawberry Smoothie Bowl with Almondmilk Recipe

Strawberry Smoothie Bowl with Almondmilk Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 1 serving:

  • 1/4 cup Almond Breeze Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk
  • 1/4 cup sweetened or unsweetened coconut chips
  • 3 bananas
  • 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
  • 1 tablespoon powdered hemp protein
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 300F (150C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Spread the coconut chips evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and toast the coconut chips for 5 to 7 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning.
  4. Once toasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately transfer the coconut chips to a small bowl to stop them from continuing to toast on the sheet.
  5. In a blender, combine the bananas, strawberries, Almond Breeze Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk, and hemp protein.
  6. Pulse the mixture until smooth and creamy. If the consistency is too thick, add a splash of Almond Breeze Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk to loosen it up.
  7. Once the smoothie is slightly thicker than usual, pour it into a bowl.
  8. Top with the toasted coconut and sliced almonds for a crunchy finish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 650
Total Fat 23g (29%)
Saturated Fat 7g (34%)
Cholesterol 0mg (0%)
Sodium 198mg (9%)
Total Carbohydrate 109g (39%)
Dietary Fiber 18g (63%)
Total Sugars 59g
Protein 17g (35%)
Vitamin C 133mg (148%)
Calcium 262mg (20%)
Iron 4mg (23%)
Potassium 1853mg (39%)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Nutrition information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Strawberry Smoothie Bowl with Almondmilk

History of the Smoothie Bowl

The smoothie bowl is a relatively recent creation in the world of healthy eating, with its origins tracing back to the health-conscious communities of Hawaii and California in the early 2000s. It is thought to have been inspired by the popular aai bowls, which are made with aai berries, a superfood native to Brazil. The smoothie bowl combines the concept of a thick smoothie with the creativity of a topping-filled bowl. Over time, it has become a trendy breakfast item worldwide, praised for its versatility and aesthetic appeal, especially on social media platforms like Instagram.

Regional Characteristics

While smoothie bowls have become a global phenomenon, their most prominent influence is from tropical regions like Hawaii, where aai berries and fresh tropical fruits are abundant. In these regions, smoothie bowls often feature local fruits such as papayas, mangoes, and dragon fruit. The recipe for this strawberry smoothie bowl, using strawberries and bananas, is a more accessible variation, but it maintains the core idea of creating a nutrient-dense, refreshing breakfast or snack. Almond milk, in this case, is a nod to plant-based eating, which has also been gaining popularity in health-conscious cultures.

Differences from Similar Dishes

The strawberry smoothie bowl differs from a typical smoothie in that it has a thicker consistency, almost like a frozen dessert. Smoothie bowls are often eaten with a spoon, whereas regular smoothies are consumed with a straw. Additionally, smoothie bowls are typically topped with various nuts, seeds, fruits, and even granola, which adds texture and extra nutrients. In contrast, traditional smoothies tend to have fewer toppings and are served as a drinkable meal. The addition of almond milk in this particular recipe also makes it stand out for those seeking a dairy-free or vegan alternative to other recipes that may rely on yogurt or dairy milk.

Where its Typically Served

Strawberry smoothie bowls are commonly found at health food cafes, juice bars, and trendy brunch spots around the world. They are particularly popular in places where health-conscious and plant-based diets are embraced. The dish is often featured in breakfast menus, as it provides a nutritious and satisfying start to the day. Additionally, smoothie bowls are a popular choice for post-workout meals due to their high protein content, especially when made with ingredients like hemp protein, as in this recipe. They can also be customized to fit dietary restrictions, making them versatile for various dietary needs.

Interesting Facts

  • The combination of bananas and strawberries in this smoothie bowl is a powerhouse of vitamins and antioxidants. Strawberries are rich in Vitamin C, while bananas provide a natural source of potassium, which helps maintain proper muscle and nerve function.
  • Hemp protein, a key ingredient in this recipe, is a complete plant-based protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Its an excellent addition for those on vegan or vegetarian diets looking to increase their protein intake.
  • The trend of smoothie bowls has exploded due to their vibrant colors, making them especially popular on social media. A well-decorated smoothie bowl can look like an art piece and encourages healthy eating among influencers and foodies alike.
  • Almond milk, the base of this recipe, is a popular alternative to dairy milk. Its lower in calories than cow's milk and is often used in smoothies and baking, particularly for people with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan lifestyle.

Conclusion

The strawberry smoothie bowl with almond milk is a delicious and healthy dish that not only tastes great but also provides a wide range of nutrients. Whether you're enjoying it as a refreshing breakfast or as a post-workout snack, this dish combines the goodness of fruits, plant-based protein, and healthy fats. The versatility and visual appeal of smoothie bowls ensure that they remain a trendy and nutritious choice for many years to come.

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FAQ about Strawberry Smoothie Bowl with Almondmilk Recipe

The smoothie bowl should be consumed immediately for the best flavor and texture. If you need to store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the texture might change as the smoothie can separate or become more liquid over time.

Yes, you can prepare the base of the smoothie bowl (without the toppings) in advance. Blend all the ingredients, then store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the toasted coconut and sliced almonds just before serving for the best texture.

Yes, you can substitute the coconut chips with other toppings such as granola, chia seeds, or crushed nuts. If you don't have coconut chips, sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut can be a good alternative.

If you don't have hemp protein, you can substitute it with other plant-based protein powders such as pea protein, soy protein, or even a scoop of your favorite vegan protein powder. If you prefer a non-vegan option, you can use whey protein.

Yes, you can definitely use frozen bananas and strawberries. In fact, using frozen fruits can make the smoothie bowl thicker and colder, which many people prefer for a more refreshing texture. Just make sure to adjust the amount of almond milk to achieve the desired consistency.

If you'd like a sweeter smoothie bowl, you can add a small amount of natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, or stevia. You can also increase the amount of banana, which naturally adds sweetness.

Yes, you can use other plant-based milks like coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk. If you're not looking for a dairy-free option, you can also use regular cow's milk.

To adjust the recipe for more servings, simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you need. Keep in mind that the cooking and prep times may slightly vary depending on your blender's capacity and the number of servings.

To avoid burning the coconut chips, keep a close eye on them while they are toasting in the oven. Check them every 2 minutes after the 5-minute mark and remove them immediately once they become golden brown. You can also stir them halfway through to ensure even toasting.

You can top your smoothie bowl with a variety of ingredients like sliced fruit (such as kiwi, blueberries, or mango), granola, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even a drizzle of nut butter. Feel free to get creative with your toppings based on your preferences!

Comments

Donald Jackson

03/26/2023 02:46:44 PM

Overall, I found this smoothie bowl to be tasty despite not being as cold as expected. The banana flavor dominates with a subtle touch of strawberry. I believe using frozen fruit and reducing the amount of banana in favor of more strawberries would improve the recipe. Due to unavailability, I used regular sweetened coconut flakes instead of coconut chips. Still, I followed the rest of the recipe as instructed. Thank you for sharing!