Description
A unique take on a classic strawberry smoothie, featuring a roasted balsamic strawberry swirl that adds sophisticated sweet and savory notes. This high-protein, easy-to-make smoothie elevates a simple breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces fresh strawberries (350g), hulled and quartered (200g for roasting, 150g for fresh base)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (or agave/honey)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Greek or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plant-based milk (almond or oat milk recommended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (alcohol-free)
- 1 1/2 cups ice cubes
- 1 sprig fresh basil, for garnish (mint alternative)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast Balsamic Strawberries: In a medium bowl, toss 200g of the quartered strawberries with the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup until coated. Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 18-22 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Cool Completely: Remove roasted strawberries from the oven and set aside to cool entirely. This is essential for creating a distinct swirl texture rather than melting into the smoothie.
- Blend Smoothie Base: Combine the remaining 150g fresh strawberries, yogurt, plant-based milk, vanilla extract, and ice cubes in a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add extra milk, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Assemble Swirl Smoothie: Pour about half of the blended smoothie into two glasses. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the cooled roasted strawberry-balsamic mixture into each glass, allowing some to settle at the bottom and some to stick to the sides. Pour the remaining smoothie over the top.
- Garnish and Serve: Spoon a final tablespoon of the roasted mixture over the top. For extra flair, use a thin skewer to create a few swirls from the top down. Garnish each glass with a fresh basil sprig and serve immediately.
Notes
To achieve distinct layers, ensure the roasted mixture is completely cool before adding it to the cold smoothie base. For a thicker smoothie bowl consistency, reduce the plant-based milk by half; for a drinkable smoothie, adjust liquid gradually until desired texture is reached.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Smoothie
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: strawberry, smoothie, breakfast, healthy, easy, high protein, balsamic, fruit, blender